What was the x component of the initial velocity of the ball?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a ball thrown into the air from ground level, with specific positions and times provided. Participants are tasked with determining various components of the ball's initial velocity and other related quantities, focusing on the x component of the initial velocity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the x component of the initial velocity, with one suggesting it is 13.5 m/s based on distance and time. Questions arise regarding the y component of the initial velocity and the appropriate equations to use for constant acceleration in the y direction.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the calculation of the x component, while others are exploring the necessary equations for the y component. There is ongoing inquiry into the correct approach for determining the initial velocity in the y direction and the implications of constant acceleration.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with the constraints of kinematic equations and the effects of gravity on the ball's motion. The discussion includes uncertainty regarding which equations are applicable for the y component and the overall initial conditions of the problem.

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A ball is thrown into the air from ground level. After a time t = 2 s, the ball has traveled to a position x1 = 27 m to the right of and y1 = 10 m up from where it was thrown (at this time, the x and y components of the ball's velocity are still positive). The axes show the x and y directions to be considered positive.

a) What was the x component of the initial velocity of the ball?
I got 13.5 m/s. I did (27m / 2 seconds)

b) What was the y component of the initial velocity of the ball?
Why is this not (10 m/ 2 seconds)?

c) What was the initial speed of the throw?
I don't know which equation to use. Or would you just do the square root of part a + part b?

d) What was the initial angle of the throw relative to the horizontal? Please enter your answer in degrees.
Is this tan-1 (10/27)?

e) What is the height of the ball at the top of its path?

I don't know what to do for this one.
 
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The x comp of the velocity is correct since the velocity in the x direction is constant. In the y direction, the velocity is not constant since the ball is constantly decelertaing on its way up, so you must use one of the other kinematic equations for constant acceleration. What is the acceleration in the y direction?
 


-9.8m/s2. Which equation is it?
 


You are given t =2 s and you know g = 9.8 m/s^2, and you are given the height y is 10 m after 2 seconds. You want to solve for the initial velocity in the y direction. Which equation would you choose?
 

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