What equation to use for simple kinetics quesitons?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Alipepsi
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    Kinetics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying appropriate kinematic equations for solving simple physics problems related to projectile motion. Participants seek guidance on which equations to apply for specific scenarios involving vertical motion of objects, particularly in the context of homework questions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents two problems involving a baseball and a soccer ball, asking for the correct kinematic equations to use.
  • Another participant suggests using standard constant acceleration equations and encourages sharing attempts to solve the problems for better assistance.
  • Participants discuss the variables involved in the equations, such as initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), acceleration (a), time (t), and displacement (s).
  • There is a suggestion to derive time using the equation t = (v - vf)/a, and a later reply mentions using the quadratic equation to solve for time when necessary.
  • Some participants express confusion about selecting the correct equations based on the given values in the problems.
  • There is a discussion about the need to derive equations correctly and the importance of checking derived formulas against original equations for consistency.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to use kinematic equations but express uncertainty about which specific equations to apply in different scenarios. There is no consensus on a single approach, as various methods and equations are discussed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention deriving equations and using the quadratic formula, indicating potential limitations in understanding the algebraic manipulation required for solving the problems.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for tests in physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics and projectile motion, may find this discussion beneficial.

Alipepsi
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For the questions below, which kinematic equations would I use? I have already tried these on my own but can not find a way to match the answers with the answer sheet, the answers on the answer key are RIGHT, as they are approved by my teacher.
Okey so the questions are
1) A baseball is thrown up vertically at 25m/s. What velocity will the ball have after:
a)1.0s
b)2.0s
c)3.0s

2) A soccer ball is kicked straight up at a speed of 30m/s. How long will it take to reach a height of 5.0m?
It would be great if you showed me how you got your answers, if not, I will really appreciate the equations, THANKS!
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi Alipepsi! Welcome to PF! :wink:

For both questions, use one of the standard constant acceleration equations.

If you're still stuck, show us what you've tried, and then we'll know how to help! :smile:
 
Thanks
 
Tiny, I'am confused =(
I've looked over the equations but can not figure out what equation to use. PLEASE HELP ME I have a test after march break =S
 
For 1), you have u t and a, and you want v

For 2), you have u s and a, and you want t

So which of the constant acceleration equations has only u t a and v,

and which has only u t a and s ? :smile:
 
a=vf-vi/t

Then just derive it :P
 
Yup! :biggrin:

(And the other one? :smile:)​
 
Vf^2=vi^2+2a(d)
v=sq root 30^2-2(9.81)(5)
v= 28.3m

THEN

Solve for time using the equation: t=(v-vf)/a

answer is 0.17seconds ;D

THANKS FOR YA HELP MAN! :D
 
You're welcome! :smile:

But quicker would have been s = ut + 1/2 at2 :wink:
 
  • #10
I see, can you help me with how to know what equations to use for questions. Like I was confused for what equation to use for the second problem. Do I look for all the values I'am given with the values in all the equatiosn then pick the one? Ik my quesitons is silly :P
 
  • #11
I always write down a list of all the given values when I start a problem. Then I compare them to the equations that I know.
 
  • #12
tiny-tim said:
You're welcome! :smile:

But quicker would have been s = ut + 1/2 at2 :wink:

So you have to derive for t right?

This is what I got:

t= sq root s-ut/0.5a

This is correct? Really need to know this asap
 
  • #13
yes, you'd have to solve for t
 
  • #14
SHISHKABOB said:
yes, you'd have to solve for t

did I derive for t correctly there?
 
  • #15
you'd have to use the quadratic equation to solve for t in that case.

notice how t= sq root s-ut/0.5a still has a t ion both sides of the equation.
 
  • #16
SHISHKABOB said:
you'd have to use the quadratic equation to solve for t in that case.

notice how t= sq root s-ut/0.5a still has a t ion both sides of the equation.

If I was to use quadratic, then how would I get my A, B, and C values from solving that equation?
 
  • #17
well the equation is also this:

1/2 at2 + ut - s = 0

so if t is the variable, what are the constants?
 
  • #18
Alipepsi said:
did I derive for t correctly there?

You can check for yourself by substituting your formula for t back into the original equation to see if everything cancels out algebraically. Or you can use it to calculate t, then substitute it and your given quantities back into the original equation to see if everything cancels out numerically.
 

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