What Is the Velocity of a Hammer Sliding Down a Roof?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the initial velocity (Vo) of a hammer sliding down a roof inclined at 15 degrees over a distance of 2.5 meters. The key equation used is V^2 = Vo^2 + 2a(X-Xo), where the acceleration (a) is derived from the gravitational component acting along the incline. The correct approach involves determining the gravitational force component parallel to the roof, leading to the conclusion that Vo can be expressed as Vo = √(2g(X-Xo)cos(15)). The participants emphasize the importance of understanding the incline's effect on gravitational acceleration.

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seraphimhouse
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Good morning, first post and more than excited that I can get possible help for physics. Only problem I think I have is translating physics problems into soluble questions.

Homework Statement



A hammer slides 2.5 m down a smooth roof which has an incline of 15 degrees.

At the instant the hammer leaves the roof, find the magnitude Vo and direction of the angle of its velocity.

x = 2.5 m
angle = 15 degrees

Homework Equations



X = Xo + volt + 1/2at^2
V^2 = Vo^2 + 2a(X-Xo)
X = Xo + 1/2(V+Vo)t

The Attempt at a Solution



Having two unknowns is leaving me at a halt. Is final velocity [at the instant leaving the roof] 0 m/s? The last equation [X = Xo + 1/2(V+Vo)t] would have V = 0 m/s and Vo = 0 m/s making the entire equation unsolvable.
 
Last edited:
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Welcome to PF.

You only need to determine your Vo. It is accelerated over the distance of the roof by what part of gravity? (You have the angle so figure the component of gravity that accelerated it.)

Doesn't look like you need your kinematic equations.
 
LowlyPion said:
Welcome to PF.

You only need to determine your Vo. It is accelerated over the distance of the roof by what part of gravity? (You have the angle so figure the component of gravity that accelerated it.)

Doesn't look like you need your kinematic equations.

I used the equation

V^2 = Vo^2 +2a(X-Xo)

and through algebra got

Vo = square root of 2g(X-Xo)

my question is should we reconstruct the the equation to be Vo = 2gcos15(X-Xo) in respect to the incline?

Editnm i got it! Thanks a lot! =]]]
 
Last edited:

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