Find the vertical distance the car has fallen

In summary, the conversation involves calculating the vertical distance a toy car has fallen off a cliff after traveling at a constant speed of 3m/s on a horizontal road and falling at an angle of 80 degrees below the horizontal. The equations used are Δx=3t, vx=voxcosθ, and vy=voysinθ-gt^2. It is also suggested to use the equation Δy=[-g(Δx/cosθ)^2]/2 + Δxtanθ to find the vertical distance.
  • #1
jenjo
1
0
1. A toy car moving at a constant speed of 3m/s on a horizontal road, heds toward and falls off a cliff. As it falls, it is notices that the car's velocity is directed 80 degrees below the horizontal when the caar has dropped an unknown vertical distance below the top of the cliff. Find the vertical distance the car has fallen at this point in the motion.



2. vx=voxcosθ
vy=voysinθ-gt^2




3. Δx=3cos80t
Δy=-1/2gt^2
two variables: y and t.
should i use this equation instead:
Δy=[-g(Δx/cosθ)^2]/2 + Δxtanθ?
or am i using the wrong approach?
 
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  • #2
hi jenjo! welcome to pf! :smile:

(try using the X2 and X2 buttons just above the Reply box :wink:)
jenjo said:
Δx=3cos80t

no, ∆x = 3t :redface:

start again …

you need to find vx and vy as functions of t,

then find t when that's 80°,

then find y :smile:
 
  • #3
jenjo said:
2. vx=voxcosθ

What, precisely, and in the context of this question, are v0 and θ in that equation?
 

FAQ: Find the vertical distance the car has fallen

1. What does "vertical distance" refer to in this context?

The vertical distance in this context refers to the distance that the car has fallen in a straight line from its initial position to its final position.

2. How is the vertical distance calculated?

The vertical distance can be calculated using the formula d = 1/2 * g * t^2, where d is the distance, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and t is the time elapsed.

3. Can the vertical distance be negative?

Yes, the vertical distance can be negative if the car falls below its initial position. In this case, the negative value indicates that the car has fallen below its starting point.

4. What factors can affect the vertical distance the car has fallen?

The vertical distance the car has fallen can be affected by the acceleration due to gravity, the initial height of the car, and any external forces such as air resistance.

5. How can the vertical distance be measured accurately?

The vertical distance can be measured accurately using tools such as a measuring tape or a ruler. It can also be calculated using sensors and technology that can track the car's position and movement.

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