Math Problem Statement

At what time are both balls at the same distance above the ground? Ball 1 is dropped from a height h, and Ball 2 is launched upwards with velocity u.

Solution

To solve the problem, we need to analyze the motion of the two balls and equate their heights to find the time tt when both are at the same distance from the ground.

Step 1: Equations of Motion

For Ball 1 (dropped from height hh):

  • Initial velocity: u1=0u_1 = 0 (dropped from rest)
  • Displacement equation under gravity: y1(t)=h12gt2y_1(t) = h - \frac{1}{2} g t^2

For Ball 2 (launched upwards with initial velocity uu):

  • Initial velocity: u2=uu_2 = u
  • Displacement equation under gravity: y2(t)=ut12gt2y_2(t) = u t - \frac{1}{2} g t^2

Step 2: Equating Heights

At the time tt, the heights of the two balls are equal: y1(t)=y2(t)y_1(t) = y_2(t) Substitute the expressions for y1(t)y_1(t) and y2(t)y_2(t): h12gt2=ut12gt2h - \frac{1}{2} g t^2 = u t - \frac{1}{2} g t^2

Cancel out the 12gt2-\frac{1}{2} g t^2 terms on both sides: h=uth = u t

Solve for tt: t=hut = \frac{h}{u}

Step 3: Verify and Match the Answer

From the calculations, the time t=hut = \frac{h}{u}. This corresponds to option C.


Let me know if you need additional clarification! 😊

Related Questions:

  1. How does gravity affect the motion of both balls in this scenario?
  2. What would the equation for y2(t)y_2(t) look like if air resistance were considered?
  3. How does the initial height hh impact the time tt?
  4. If Ball 2 were launched at an angle instead of vertically, how would the equations change?
  5. What happens if h=0h = 0? Will the balls meet at any point?

Tip:

Always check the signs of the terms in motion equations to ensure they align with the direction of motion (positive for upwards, negative for downwards).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Kinematics
Equations of Motion
Algebra

Formulas

y1(t) = h - (1/2)gt^2
y2(t) = ut - (1/2)gt^2
h = ut

Theorems

Newton's Laws of Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12