Comparing Two Balls' Heights: A Physics Problem

In summary, a blue ball is thrown upward at 23.5 m/s from a height of 0.9 meters above the ground. 2.9 seconds later, a red ball is thrown down at 11.9 m/s from a height of 31.4 meters above the ground. Both balls experience a constant downward acceleration of 9.81 m/s^2 due to gravity. The height of the red ball 3.77 seconds after the blue ball is thrown can be found using the equations set up for each ball, with the red ball's time coordinate shifted by 2.9 seconds. The two balls will be at the same height when the time for the red ball is equal to 2.9
  • #1
magellaniic
4
0
A blue ball is thrown upward with an initial speed of 23.5 m/s, from a height of 0.9 meters above the ground. 2.9 seconds after the blue ball is thrown, a red ball is thrown down with an initial speed of 11.9 m/s from a height of 31.4 meters above the ground. The force of gravity due to the Earth results in the balls each having a constant downward acceleration of 9.81 m/s^2.

The Two questions are the following:

What is the height of the red ball 3.77 seconds after the blue ball is thrown?

and

How long after the blue ball is thrown are the two balls in the air at the same height?

Thanks for help much appreciated.
 
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  • #2


Can you set up the equation to describe the blue ball?

Then set up a similar equation for the red ball but you will have to shift the time coordinate for the red ball by 2.9 seconds. From there it should be easy.
 
  • #3


Got it thanks :)
 

Related to Comparing Two Balls' Heights: A Physics Problem

1. What is the purpose of comparing two balls' heights in a physics problem?

The purpose of this problem is to illustrate the principles of physics, specifically the relationship between potential energy and height, using a real-life scenario.

2. How do you determine the height of a ball in this problem?

The height of a ball can be determined by measuring the distance between the bottom of the ball and the ground. This can be done using a ruler or measuring tape.

3. What factors affect the height of a ball in this problem?

The height of the ball is affected by the initial potential energy it has, the force of gravity, and any external forces acting on the ball, such as air resistance or friction.

4. How do you calculate the potential energy of a ball in this problem?

The potential energy of a ball can be calculated using the formula PE = mgh, where m is the mass of the ball, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the ball.

5. How does the height of one ball compare to the other in this problem?

The height of one ball can be compared to the other by comparing their potential energies. The ball with the higher potential energy will have a greater height, assuming all other factors are equal.

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