Where Is the Error in Calculating the Distance Traveled?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of the distance traveled in projectile motion using two equations: the total distance (range) formula and the simplified version derived from it. The user initially calculated the distance as 180√3 meters using the equation for total distance, but later found a discrepancy when applying the simplified equation, yielding only 90 meters. The error was identified as a misunderstanding of the trigonometric identities, specifically the difference between sin(2x) and sin²(x). The correct distance remains 180√3 meters, confirming the validity of the initial calculation.

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prakhargupta3301
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Homework Statement


Only (b) part[/B]
upload_2018-6-25_23-17-29.png


Homework Equations


time of flight= (2⋅u⋅sinθ)/g ---------------- - 1
total distance (range)= u⋅cosθ * time of flight (s=vt)
=u⋅cosθ * (2⋅u⋅sinθ)/g --------------- -2
=u2⋅2sinθcosθ/g
= u2⋅sin2θ/g ---------------- -3


The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Rather than using equation 3, I decided to use 2, as 3 is just 2 simplified.
Distance= u⋅cosθ * (2⋅u⋅sinθ)/g
= (60*cos30°)*(2*60*sin30°)/10
= (60*(√3/2))*(2*60*(1/2))/10
=(30*60√3)/10
=180√3 metres

However by equation 3,
Distance= u2⋅sin2θ/g
= 3600*(sin30°)2/10
= [3600*(1/4)]/10
= 900/10= 90 metres.
Where is the error please tell me!
THank you for reading.
 

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2sinxcosx = sin(2x) whereas you are using sin2(x)
You should get 180√3 either way.
 
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Likes   Reactions: prakhargupta3301
Thanks a bunch. I redid the mistake over and over again.
Now it's clear.
:D
 

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