The problem involves a projectile fired from a cliff at an angle, with the goal of determining its initial speed based on its landing distance from the base of the cliff. The context includes elements of projectile motion, specifically focusing on horizontal and vertical components of motion.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem setup. Some guidance has been offered regarding the equations and the nature of the time variable, but no consensus has been reached on the overall approach or solution.
There is a mention of the vertical displacement being 20m and the potential confusion regarding the total time of flight versus the time for specific parts of the projectile's motion. The original poster has requested explanations, indicating a desire for deeper understanding.
jysim said:What I got so far was Vi cos 30t = 40
Is the total vertical distance merely 20m since the vertical displacement of the cannonball during the parabolic trajectory is 0? (Since it goes up and down the same distance?) - pardon my bad english lol!
Is the "t" in the Vi cos 30t = 40 equation the total time taken for the entire projectile motion or just the upper symmetrical part of the projectile (excluding the 20m descent)?
Thanks!