Projectile Motion Example - How fast when it hits the ground

Physics with Professor Matt Anderson2 minutes read

In a physics problem presented by Professor Anderson, a projectile motion is analyzed involving launching an object at an angle from a building. By applying kinematic equations, the final speed of the object is determined to be approximately 42.21 meters per second, which is not affected by the angle of launch.

Insights

  • The final speed of a projectile launched at an angle can be calculated using the equation VF = sqrt(VI^2 + 2GH), where VI is the initial velocity, H is the starting height, and G is the acceleration due to gravity.
  • The angle of launch (theta) does not impact the final speed of a projectile, as evidenced by the fact that a ball thrown straight up and caught at the same speed as one launched at an angle will have the same final speed.

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Recent questions

  • How does angle of launch affect projectile motion?

    The angle of launch does not affect the final speed of the object in projectile motion.

  • What is the formula for calculating final speed in projectile motion?

    The final speed in projectile motion can be calculated using VF = square root of VI squared plus 2GH.

  • What are the parameters needed to solve a projectile motion problem?

    To solve a projectile motion problem, parameters like initial velocity (VI), angle (theta), and starting height (H) are required.

  • How long does an object stay in the air during projectile motion?

    The time an object stays in the air during projectile motion can be calculated using kinematic equations.

  • Does the angle of launch affect the final speed of a projectile?

    The angle of launch does not affect the final speed of a projectile, as demonstrated by a ball thrown straight up and caught at the same speed.

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Summary

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Projectile Motion: Calculating Final Speed and Time

  • Professor Anderson introduces a projectile motion problem involving launching an object at an angle from a building.
  • Given parameters include VI (initial velocity) at 20 meters per second, theta (angle) at 30 degrees, and starting height H at 45 meters.
  • The first question is how long the object is in the air, and the second question is about its final speed.
  • By analyzing kinematic equations, it is determined that the final speed can be calculated using VF = square root of VI squared plus 2GH.
  • The final speed is calculated to be approximately 42.21 meters per second.
  • The angle of launch (theta) does not affect the final speed of the object, as demonstrated by a ball thrown straight up and caught at the same speed.
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