Calculating Vertical Distance of a Thrown Pebble from a Pyramid

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In summary: Qsec^{2}Q}{4.9}y = \frac{-v^{2}sin^{2}Q}{4.9cos^{2}Q}In summary, the problem involves finding the vertical distance h when a pebble is thrown off the side of a pyramid perpendicular to its slope, under the assumption of negligible drag forces. Using the equations for velocity and displacement, as well as the equation for the trajectory of a projectile, the final solution is expressed as y = -v^2sin^2θ / 4.9cos^2θ.
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joemama69
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Homework Statement



A pebble is thrown off the side of a pyramide perpindicular to its slope. Find the vertical distance h under the assumption the drag forces are negligible.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



vx=vcos(90-Q) Q = theta
vy=vsin(90-Q)

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x = vxt; therefore t = [tex]\frac{x}{v_x}[/tex] = [tex]\frac{x}{v_{x}cos(90-Q)}[/tex]

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tanQ=[tex]\frac{y}{x}[/tex]; therefore y = xtanQ

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y=yo + vyt - [tex]\frac{1}{2}[/tex]gt2

y= [tex]\frac{xv_{x}sin(90-Q)}{v_{x}cos(90-Q)}[/tex] - [tex]\frac{9.8}{2}[/tex]([tex]\frac{x}{v_{x}cos(90-Q)}[/tex])2

y= xtan(90-Q) - [tex]\frac{4.8x^{2}}{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)}[/tex]


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Set both y's equal to each other

xtanQ = xtan(90-Q) - [tex]\frac{4.8x^{2}}{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)}[/tex]

tanQ = tan(90-Q) - [tex]\frac{4.8x}{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)}[/tex]

now I am going to solve it for x

x = [tex]\frac{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)[tanQ-tan(90-Q)]}{-4.8}[/tex]

and now i pluf it into y = xtanQ

y = [tex]\frac{v^{2}tanQcos^{2}(90-Q)[tanQ-tan(90-Q)]}{-4.8}[/tex]

seems a little to messy, did i miss somethig
 

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  • #2
It is right. But you can put it in a better form.
write tan(90 - Q) = cot Q
cos(90 - Q) = sin Q
 
  • #3
Take care, the slope goes downwards so y = -xtanQ. And 9.8/2 =4.9.

ehild
 
  • #4
-tanQ = tan(90-Q)-[tex]\frac{4.9x}{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)}[/tex]

x = [tex]\frac{v^{2}cos^{2}(90-Q)}{4.9}[/tex][tan(90-Q) + tanQ]

x = [tex]\frac{v^{2}sin^{2}Q}{4.9}[/tex][cotQ + tanQ]

y = -[tex]\frac{v^{2}tanQsin^{2}Q}{4.9}[/tex][cotQ + tanQ]


so there is nothin left to do with this one
 
  • #5
In the last step put cotQ = 1/tanQ and simplify.
 
  • #6
y = [tex]\frac{-v^{2}sin^{2}Q[1 + tan^{2}Q]}{4.9}[/tex]
 
  • #7
joemama69 said:
y = [tex]\frac{-v^{2}sin^{2}Q[1 + tan^{2}Q]}{4.9}[/tex]
1 + tan^2θ = sec2θ
 

FAQ: Calculating Vertical Distance of a Thrown Pebble from a Pyramid

What is the purpose of throwing a pebble from a pyramid?

The purpose of throwing a pebble from a pyramid is to demonstrate the power of gravity and the effects of air resistance on falling objects. It also serves as a way to measure the acceleration of the pebble as it falls.

How does the shape of the pyramid affect the pebble's trajectory?

The shape of the pyramid does not have a significant effect on the pebble's trajectory. As long as the pebble is thrown from the same height and with the same force, it will follow the same path regardless of the pyramid's shape.

Can the pebble's speed be calculated from the height of the pyramid?

Yes, the pebble's speed can be calculated using the formula v = √(2gh), where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the pyramid. However, this calculation assumes no air resistance and is only an estimate.

What factors can affect the pebble's trajectory?

The main factors that can affect the pebble's trajectory are the initial force and direction of the throw, air resistance, and any external forces such as wind. The shape and height of the pyramid may also have a small impact on the trajectory.

How does air resistance affect the pebble's fall?

Air resistance slows down the pebble's fall, causing it to have a shorter distance and longer time in the air compared to if it were falling in a vacuum. This is due to the force of air pushing against the pebble as it falls, creating drag and reducing its speed.

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