Rocket Challenge!
Move the target to predict where the rocket will land.
The greatest challenge my group faced in calculating the rocket's landing was not in the setup but, rather, the actual mathematic calculations. Initially, we placed the angels of the rocket on the diagram in the wrong places. The rocket's stand was inclined backwards rather than forwards. So, we had to go back and adjust our calculations and re-test the launch. Once we re-calculated, we got a more realistic prediction.
Initial Data:
Change in Xy = 0m (Starting from the ground and ending on the ground)
a = 10m/s (Constant in the vertical)
Fg = 9.8
We had to solve for Vi and 25 degrees, which was the angle of launch we were predicting.
We began testing at 40 degrees.
Average: t = 3.74 and x = 49.05
With this information, we could see that the change in Xx = 49.05 and t = 3.74.
Then, we were able to plug this information into an equation and find Vx.
V = Change in Xx/Change in t
V = 49.05/3.74
Vx = 13.11 m/s
Next, we created a graph to calculate the velocity.
Cos = adj/hyp
Cos 50 = 13.11/hyp
hyp = 13.11(cos(50))
hyp = 20.40
V = 20.40
Then, once we found the velocity, we could create a new graph to find the initial velocity of x and y.
Cos 65 = Vix/20.40
Vix = 20.40 (cos(65))
Vix = 8.6
Cos 25 = Viy/20.40
Viy = 20.40 (cos(25))
Viy = 18.5
Vix = 8.6
Viy = 18.5
Once we had all the variables, we were able to plug them all into an equation to find the change in time. However, my calculations seemed to turn out incorrect.
Change of X = 1/2a (change in t^2) + vi (t)
0 = 1/2(-9.8) (change in t^2) + (18.5)(t)
-18.5 = -4.9 (change in t^2) + t
*-13.6 = change in t^2 + t
Initially, with our incorrect calculations, we predicted the rocket would land at 23.13 meters. However, it actually landed at 36.5 meters.
