Stones thrown from different heights

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In summary, the conversation discusses how to find the functional form of the vertical distance between two stones thrown from different heights and at different times. The problem does not require specific numerical values and instead focuses on understanding the important concepts and using equations of rectilinear motion to find the positions of each stone. The final question asks for the functional form of the distance between the two stones while they are in flight.
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lalahelp
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Homework Statement


Two stones are thrown from different heights and at different times. While they are still in flight ,find the functional form of the vertical distance between them as a function of time


Homework Equations



? How do you do this, there are no numbers given I am very confused ...
 
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  • #2
Really, it is not all that difficult.
You do not need number values.
In fact when a system is first being analyzed or designed nobody has any numbers. It is best to first find out what is important, and that is what this problem is about.

stone 1 ( or a , or zamba or whatever you want to call it )
Initial velocity v1
initial height h1
initial time t1
acceleration a = g ( gravity )

Now using these values, and an equation of rectiliner motion, you can find stone1 position.

Stone 2
Initial velocity v2
initial height h2
initial time t2
acceleration a = g ( gravity )

Now using these values, and an equation of rectiliner motion, you can find stone2 position.

Then, I leave it up to you to figure out what the question asks "While they are still in flight ,find the functional form of the vertical distance between them as a function of time".
 

Related to Stones thrown from different heights

1. How does the height affect the distance a stone will travel?

The height from which a stone is thrown directly impacts the distance it will travel. The higher the height, the longer the stone will stay in the air and the farther it will travel before hitting the ground.

2. What other factors besides height can affect the distance a stone will travel?

Other factors that can affect the distance a stone will travel include the angle at which it is thrown, the weight and shape of the stone, and air resistance.

3. Can the type of surface the stone lands on affect its distance?

Yes, the type of surface can have an impact on the distance a stone will travel. For example, a stone thrown onto a soft surface like sand will likely not travel as far as a stone thrown onto a harder surface like concrete.

4. What is the relationship between the height and the time of flight for a stone?

The height and the time of flight for a stone are directly related. The higher the height, the longer the stone will stay in the air and the longer its time of flight will be before it reaches the ground.

5. Is there a maximum height from which a stone can be thrown for it to reach a certain distance?

Yes, there is a maximum height from which a stone can be thrown to reach a certain distance. This is because at a certain height, air resistance and gravity will balance out and the stone will no longer continue to travel farther. This is known as the projectile's maximum height.

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