Solving for Angle of Vector: Ball Bouncing Problem | Physics Homework Help

In summary, a ball is thrown and bounces off the ground, reaching a height of 3.10 m before bouncing again 0.70 m away from the first bounce. Using the equation H=0.5(v^2/g) for y velocity, the vertical velocity (Vy) is calculated to be 7.799 m/s and the horizontal velocity (Vx) is found to be 0.441 m/s. However, the angle calculated using the inverse tangent function is incorrect. The correct angle can be found using the equation tan(theta) = Vy/Vx = 7.79/0.44.
  • #1
nc1617
4
0

Homework Statement



A ball is tossed so that it bounces off the ground, rises to a height of 3.10 m, and then hits the ground again 0.70 m away from the first bounce.

Homework Equations


H= .5(v^2/g) for y velocity.


The Attempt at a Solution


Vy=squareroot of(60.822) Vy= 7.799 m/s
Vx= .70 m/1.59 s= .441 m/s
inversetangent(Vy+Vx)= angle ------ is this correct?

i did the inversetangent and it came out to be about 79.4 degrees. but that wasn't the correct answer :(
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
your Vx , Vy are correct but the angle is wrong.

[tex]\tan(\theta)=\frac{V_y}{V_x}=\frac{7.79}{0.44}[/tex]
 
  • #3
thank you! :)
 

FAQ: Solving for Angle of Vector: Ball Bouncing Problem | Physics Homework Help

What is a vector and why is it important?

A vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude and direction. It is important because it allows us to represent physical quantities such as velocity, force, and displacement in a clear and concise manner.

How does the angle of a vector affect its direction?

The angle of a vector is the direction in which it is pointing. A vector with a larger angle will have a greater direction than a vector with a smaller angle. For example, a vector with an angle of 90 degrees will point straight up, while a vector with an angle of 45 degrees will point diagonally upward.

Why do we use vectors in scientific calculations?

Vectors are used in scientific calculations because they allow us to accurately represent the magnitude and direction of physical quantities. This makes it easier to solve complex problems and make accurate predictions about the behavior of objects in the physical world.

How do I calculate the angle of a vector?

The angle of a vector can be calculated by finding the inverse tangent of the vector's y-component divided by its x-component. This can be represented mathematically as angle = arctan(y/x). Alternatively, you can use trigonometric functions such as sine and cosine to calculate the angle.

What should I do if the angle of my vector is negative?

A negative angle simply means that the vector is pointing in the opposite direction than a positive angle. To correct this, you can add or subtract 180 degrees to the angle to get the equivalent positive angle. For example, an angle of -30 degrees is equivalent to an angle of 150 degrees.

Similar threads

Projectile Motion velocity vector Problem
Replies
2
Views
2K
Uniform Circular Motion and Projectile Motion Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
Projectile Motion Problem: Maximum Height of a Ball Shot into the Air
Replies
11
Views
2K
Oblique soccer shot calculation task
2
Replies
38
Views
3K
Average force and angle, collision problem
Replies
23
Views
2K
What Is the Angle Between Velocity Vector and Trajectory at Maximum Height?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Projectile motion cannon ball angle
Replies
4
Views
2K
How do I know when velocity is negative in a 1-D motion problem?
Replies
2
Views
1K
How Does Projectile Motion Affect Speed and Angle on Impact?
Replies
2
Views
2K
Throwing a Ball and determining possible angles.
Replies
12
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top