What is the final term in the distance formula for maximum range?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of the distance formula for maximum range in projectile motion, specifically the formula d=[(2[v_0]^2(cos[alpha])sin([alpha-beta])]/gcos^2(beta). A user inquires about the term cos(2alpha-beta) in the derivative of distance with respect to alpha, which is essential for determining the angle alpha for maximum range. Another participant clarifies that this term is derived from the cosine addition formula, confirming its correctness in the context of the discussion.

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delve
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Hey guys,

I was hoping somebody might help me; I'm really confused. I obtained the formula for distance, which is this:

d=[(2[v_0]^2(cos[alpha])sin([alpha-beta])]/gcos^2(beta)

And the derivative for distance, which is this:

derivative of d with respect to alpha=0=(2[v_0]^2)/(gcos^2(beta))*(-sin(alpha)sin(alpha-beta)+cos(alpha)cos(alpha-beta))*cos(2alpha-beta)

I was trying to see what alpha would be for maximum range, but I have no idea where the very end term on the right comes from: cos(2alpha-beta). Could somebody please me? Thank you.

David
 
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Hey David! :smile:
delve said:
d=[(2[v_0]^2(cos[alpha])sin([alpha-beta])]/gcos^2(beta)

And the derivative for distance, which is this:

derivative of d with respect to alpha=0=(2[v_0]^2)/(gcos^2(beta))*(-sin(alpha)sin(alpha-beta)+cos(alpha)cos(alpha-beta))*cos(2alpha-beta)

No, that *cos(2α-β) at the end must be a misprint for =cos(2α-β) …

cos(A+B) = cosAcosB - sinAsinB :wink:
 
Thank you very much Tiny-Tim! That was exactly what I needed! :D
 

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