Solve equation for d: Rewriting Physics Homework

  • Thread starter 1MileCrash
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In summary, the conversation is about a physics problem where the student is trying to solve for d but is struggling with the math. They have reached the equation 2d/g = (t - d/v)^2 and are having difficulty understanding how the solution manual gets the last term to be (1+v^2)d^2 instead of plain old d^2/v^2. A suggestion is made to try taking the square root of both sides or multiplying both sides by v2 and then squaring the right hand side. The student also mentions a possible typo in the solution manual.
  • #1
1MileCrash
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Homework Statement



This is for a physics problem. I need to solve this for d, but I'm not sure how.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I've gotten up to:

[itex]\frac{2d}{g} = (t - \frac{d}{v})^{2}[/itex]

When I multiply the right term out, it becomes a mess, everything I do makes it ugly. What should I try doing?

My main source of confusion is that multiplying that out gives me:

[itex]t^{2} - \frac{2dt}{v} + \frac{d^{2}}{v^{2}}[/itex]

While my solution manual gives the last term as:

(1+v^2)d^2.

Those are not the same. What gives?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
If squaring the right hand side makes it too ugly for you, then try taking the square root of both sides. That makes the math a little more challenging,

You could multiply both sides by v2 then square the right hand side. Maybe not quite so ugly.
 
  • #3
SammyS said:
If squaring the right hand side makes it too ugly for you, then try taking the square root of both sides. That makes the math a little more challenging,

You could multiply both sides by v2 then square the right hand side. Maybe not quite so ugly.

My main problem is that the solution manual I have gives steps that I just don't follow.

They multiply out (t-d/v)^2 and get (1+v^2)d^2 for the last term. I literally haven't the slightest how it comes to that, I just get plain old d^2/v^2.. and they aren't the same.
 
  • #4
How about scanning that solution & posting the image?
 
  • #5
Sure thing, gimme a few minutes.
 
  • #6
http://img585.imageshack.us/img585/5854/physicsstone.png

After "square both sides to obtain.." I don't know how they get that. At all.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #7
It's just a typo.

It could be (1 ÷ v2) d2

The following lines appear to be correct.
 

FAQ: Solve equation for d: Rewriting Physics Homework

How do I solve equations for d in physics homework?

To solve equations for d in physics homework, you need to first identify the variables and constants in the equation. Then, use algebraic techniques such as combining like terms, distributing, and isolating the variable d on one side of the equation. Finally, solve for d using the appropriate mathematical operations.

What are the common mistakes when solving equations for d in physics?

Some common mistakes when solving equations for d in physics include not correctly identifying the variables and constants, making arithmetic errors, and not using the correct units when solving for a physical quantity.

Can I use a calculator to solve equations for d in physics?

Yes, you can use a calculator to solve equations for d in physics. However, it is important to remember to use the correct order of operations and to round your final answer to the appropriate number of significant figures.

How do I know if my solution for d is correct?

You can check the solution for d by plugging it back into the original equation and seeing if it satisfies the equation. Additionally, you can use the solution to solve for other variables in the equation and compare it to known values or experimental data.

Are there any tips for solving equations for d in physics more efficiently?

One tip for solving equations for d in physics more efficiently is to start by simplifying the equation as much as possible before attempting to solve for d. Additionally, it can be helpful to clearly label and organize the variables and constants in the equation to avoid confusion.

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