What equation to use for projectile motion problems

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the appropriate equations for projectile motion, specifically focusing on two equations that involve similar variables but yield different results. The original poster is trying to determine the correct application of these equations in the context of a marble rolling off a table.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply two different equations for projectile motion but is confused about their correct usage. They question why one equation is appropriate in their textbook while their application of the second equation leads to an incorrect result.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the equations and their variables. Some suggest rechecking the original equations, while others question the accuracy of the variables used in the second equation. There is a focus on ensuring the correct interpretation of the equations rather than reaching a consensus on a solution.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential misprint in the textbook regarding the variables used in the equations, specifically whether to use 'delta t' or 'delta y'. The original poster has provided specific values and context from their homework problem.

pickle37
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I was given a list of equations for projectile motion and two of the equations have the same variables but give different outputs. I don't understand when to use one equation and when to use the other. The equations are:

ay=(vfy-viy)/(delta t)

and

(vfy)^2= (viy)^2 + 2ay(delta t)

I tried using the second equation to solve the following problem but got it wrong. In the book they used the first equation. I see how using the first equation makes sense now, but why is it wrong to use the second equation?

A marble rolls off a table at the horizontal velocity of 1.93 m/s. The tabletop is 76.5 cm above the floor. If air resistance is negligible, determine the velocity at impact.

I solved for (delta t) and got 0.4s. I rearranged the second equation to find (vfy) and tried to solve using (viy)=0m/s, ay= 9.8 m/s^2, and (delta t)= 0.4s . I found (vfy) to be 2.8 m/s when its supposed to be 3.9 m/s
 
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Recheck your second equation. Are you sure 'delta t' isn't 'delta y'?
 
They have (delta t) written in the textbook
 
Everything looks good except I think your second equation isn't quite right. 0.4s is correct. What textbook is this?
 
The second equation should definitely have \Delta y instead of \Delta t. If your book has \Delta y there, it's a misprint.
 

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