What Equation Determines the Velocity for a Basketball Shot?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the velocity required for a basketball shot under ideal conditions, with specific parameters including initial height, angle of trajectory, range, and time. The problem is situated within the context of kinematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to identify relevant kinematic equations and clarify the meaning of specific terms, such as v_y(t). There is a focus on breaking down the motion into horizontal and vertical components and understanding how to apply the equations of motion.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided equations for horizontal and vertical motion, while others are seeking clarification on the meaning of certain variables. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations of the problem being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with ideal conditions and specific values for height, angle, range, and time, but there may be uncertainties regarding the application of the equations and the definitions of certain terms.

Leonof
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Homework Statement


I don't know what equation to use. i am trying to find out the velocity need to make a shot. the conditions are ideal.
initial height: 6 feet
initial vertical velocity:unknown
angle of trajectory: 45 degrees
range: 14 feet
time:2 seconds
basketball hoop height: 10 feet

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


 
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Leonof said:

Homework Statement



I don't know what equation to use. i am trying to find out the velocity need to make a shot. the conditions are ideal.
initial height: 6 feet
initial vertical velocity:unknown
angle of trajectory: 45 degrees
range: 14 feet
time:2 seconds
basketball hoop height: 10 feet

Welcome to the PF. The Relevant Equations are the kinematic equations of motion for a constant acceleration (the acceleration due to gravity). Can you list those for us?

v_y(t) = _________

y(t) = __________

And you have a constant velocity in the x direction, so you can write:

x(t) = __________
 
xt=x0 + v0 cos(a) t
y(t) = y0 + v0 sin(a) t - (1/2) g t^2

i don't understand what is meant by v_y(t)
 
Leonof said:
xt=x0 + v0 cos(a) t
y(t) = y0 + v0 sin(a) t - (1/2) g t^2

i don't understand what is meant by v_y(t)

Good start. v_y is shorthand for the velocity in the y direction. Written more clearly in Latex:

[tex]v_y[/tex]
 
v_y=vsin0-(gx/vcos0)
 
so 14+4cos45*2=18.2
-> 4sin45-(g*18.2/4cos45)?
 

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