Velocity and acceleration of an army tank

In summary, the army tank fires a shell horizontally and it strikes the ground at a horizontal distance of 6000 m away from the tank. Using equations for horizontal and vertical motion, it can be determined that the vertical component of the shell's striking velocity is not relevant in finding the time it takes for the shell to strike the ground.
  • #1
ad848
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Homework Statement



An army tank on a mountainside fires its gun horizontally. The shell strikes the ground at a horizontal distance of 6000 m away from the tank. As the vertical component of the shell’s striking velocity is vy=200 m/s, how soon after it is fired does the shell strike the ground? (g=10 m/s2)

Homework Equations


v^2=2ax (1)
x=at^2/2 (2)

The Attempt at a Solution


40000=2*a*6000
then find t with (2) but why is it the component vy?
 
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  • #2
ad848 said:

Homework Statement



An army tank on a mountainside fires its gun horizontally. The shell strikes the ground at a horizontal distance of 6000 m away from the tank. As the vertical component of the shell’s striking velocity is vy=200 m/s, how soon after it is fired does the shell strike the ground? (g=10 m/s2)

Homework Equations


v^2=2ax (1)
x=at^2/2 (2)

The Attempt at a Solution


40000=2*a*6000
then find t with (2) but why is it the component vy?
It isn't. If you use an equation involving vertical acceleration, then the other variables in the equation will be vertical displacement, vertical velocity, etc.

Your mistake is that you mixed a vertical velocity and a horizontal distance in the one equation!
 

Related to Velocity and acceleration of an army tank

1. What is the difference between velocity and acceleration?

Velocity refers to the rate of change of an object's position over time. It includes both the speed and direction of an object's motion. Acceleration, on the other hand, refers to the rate of change of an object's velocity over time. It can be thought of as the object's change in speed or direction.

2. How is velocity measured for an army tank?

Velocity for an army tank is typically measured using a device called a speedometer. This device uses sensors to track the rotation of the tank's wheels and calculate its speed. Other methods, such as GPS or radar, can also be used to measure velocity.

3. What factors affect the velocity of an army tank?

The velocity of an army tank can be affected by factors such as the terrain it is traveling on, the weight and load of the tank, and the engine power. Other external factors, such as wind resistance or friction, can also impact the tank's velocity.

4. How does acceleration impact the movement of an army tank?

Acceleration is a crucial factor in the movement of an army tank. It determines how quickly the tank can reach its desired speed, as well as how quickly it can change direction or come to a stop. A tank with a higher acceleration will be more maneuverable and responsive in combat situations.

5. Can an army tank reach high velocities and accelerations?

Yes, depending on its design and capabilities, an army tank can reach high velocities and accelerations. Some modern tanks can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour and have accelerations of 0 to 20 miles per hour in just a few seconds. However, these speeds and accelerations may vary depending on the tank's terrain and operational conditions.

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