Writing Equations for Position, Velocity, and Accelerations as functions of time

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a projectile launched from a height with a specified speed and angle, requiring the formulation of equations for position, velocity, and acceleration as functions of time. The context is projectile motion, focusing on the effects of gravity and initial conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of projectile motion and the implications of constant acceleration due to gravity. Some suggest using calculus to derive the equations, while others mention the availability of kinematic formulas for those less familiar with calculus. One participant expresses confusion regarding the formulas taught by their teacher and seeks additional resources.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods to approach the problem. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of kinematic equations and the nature of projectile motion, but no consensus has been reached on specific methods or solutions.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of varying levels of understanding among participants, with one expressing a need for additional resources to clarify the formulas required for the problem. The original poster's request for help suggests they are struggling with the formulation of the equations.

Jordash
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Homework Statement



A projectile is launched with a speed of 50.0 m/s and an angle of 40.0o above the horizontal, from the top of a 75.0 m high cliff onto a flat valley floor at the base of the cliff. Assume that g = 10.0 m/s2 and ignore aerodynamic effects.

Write equations for position, velocity, and acceleration as function of time for the projectile.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I've been looking through the time functions but I can't seem to figure out how to write these equations. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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It's a projectile motion problem. What is a projectile? An object that, once set into motion (launched) travels solely under the influence of gravity. Gravity is a constant force (it isn't really, but it is for our purposes, unless you're traveling really large vertical distances). So you already know that the acceleration is constant (doesn't change with time). From that you can either work backwards using calculus to find the velocity and position. OR, if you haven't studied calculus, then your teacher will have taught you kinematics formulas that *describe* the motion of an object under constant acceleration (formulas that are derived from calculus), and you can just *use* them.
 
I didn't really understand our teacher when he taught those formulas, is there a place I can look which teaches the formulas i'll need to use?
 
accident put wrong post in this forum
 
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