Ball Dropping vs Throwing (1d Kinematics)

In summary, using the equations y=y_0+v_0t+\frac {1} {2}at^2 for both balls with the same zero level, the building ball will have a y0 = 20 and v0 = 0, while the ground ball will have a y0 = 0 and v0 = 30m/s. By setting both equations equal to the same y and solving, the balls will be at the same height after 2/3 seconds.
  • #1
Kildars
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0
A ball is thrown upward from the ground with an initial speed of 30 m/s; at the same instant, a ball is dropped from a building 20 m high. After how long will the balls be at the same height?

Again, some guidance on where to start would help me crack this one better.
 
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  • #2
[tex]y=y_0+v_0t+\frac {1} {2}at^2[/tex]
Use this equation for both balls using the same zero level. Their Y levels will be the same so you can put both equations together and solve for t.
 
  • #3
BishopUser said:
[tex]y=y_0+v_0t+\frac {1} {2}at^2[/tex]
Use this equation for both balls using the same zero level. Their Y levels will be the same so you can put both equations together and solve for t.

Is y 20? and y0 = 0? I know that Vo is 0.
 
  • #4
y = the position at which the 2 balls meet
y0 is the initial position. If you set the 0 level at the ground then the ground ball y0 = 0 and the building ball y0 = 20. The building ball will have v0 = 0, the ground one will have v0=30m/s. Make 2 different equations with that information, combine then, solve for T
 
  • #5
Building Ball y = 20 + 0t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2
Ground Ball y = 0 + 30t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2

Do I combine them by doing y = 20 + 30t + 1/2(-9.8)t^2
 
  • #6
both equations are equal to the same y, so you combine them by setting them equal to one another

20 + 0t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2 = 0 + 30t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2
20 = 30t
t = 2/3 seconds
 
  • #7
BishopUser said:
both equations are equal to the same y, so you combine them by setting them equal to one another

20 + 0t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2 = 0 + 30t + 1/2(-9.81)t^2
20 = 30t
t = 2/3 seconds

Thank you, you learn something everyday :)
 

FAQ: Ball Dropping vs Throwing (1d Kinematics)

What is the difference between ball dropping and throwing?

Ball dropping and throwing are two different ways of releasing an object into the air. Ball dropping involves releasing the ball from a stationary position, while throwing involves applying a force to the ball in a specific direction.

How does the initial velocity affect the motion of the ball when dropped or thrown?

The initial velocity, or the speed at which the ball is released, plays a significant role in the motion of the ball. In ball dropping, the initial velocity is 0, so the ball will accelerate downwards due to gravity. In throwing, the initial velocity will determine the direction and speed of the ball's motion.

Does the mass of the ball affect its trajectory when dropped or thrown?

Yes, the mass of the ball can affect its trajectory when dropped or thrown. In ball dropping, the mass will not have a significant impact as gravity will cause all objects to accelerate at the same rate. However, in throwing, the mass can affect the ball's trajectory due to its inertia and resistance to changes in motion.

How does air resistance affect the motion of the ball when dropped or thrown?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can have a significant impact on the motion of a ball. In ball dropping, air resistance is negligible as the ball is only falling a short distance. However, in throwing, air resistance can slow down the ball's motion and cause it to follow a curved path.

What is the difference between the equations for calculating the motion of a ball when dropped and thrown?

The equations for calculating the motion of a ball when dropped and thrown are different due to the initial conditions of each scenario. In ball dropping, the initial velocity is 0, so the equation only includes the acceleration due to gravity. In throwing, the initial velocity is non-zero, so the equation includes the initial velocity and acceleration due to gravity.

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