HC Verma Chapter 3 Problem 43 — Instantaneous velocity direction

Problem Statement

Solve the kinematics problem: A particle has $x = 3t$ and $y = 4t^2$ (SI). Find the direction of velocity at $t = 2$ s. $v_x = dx/dt$, $v_y = dy/dt$; direction $= \arctan(v_y/v_x)$ Step 1: $v_x = 3$ m/s; $v_y = 8t$. At $t=2$: $v_y = 16$ m/s. Step 2: $\tan\alpha = 16/3 \approx 5.33 \Rightarrow \alpha \approx 79.4°$ above horizont

Given Information

  • $x = 3t$
  • $y = 4t$
  • $v_y = 8t$
  • $\tan\alpha = 16/$

Physical Concepts & Formulas

This problem applies fundamental physics principles to the scenario described. The solution requires identifying the relevant conservation laws and equations of motion, then solving systematically with careful attention to units and sign conventions.

  • See the step-by-step solution for the specific equations applied.
  • All quantities are in SI units unless otherwise stated.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1 — Verify the result: Check units, limiting cases, and order of magnitude to confirm the answer is physically reasonable.

Step 2 — Verify the result: Check units, limiting cases, and order of magnitude to confirm the answer is physically reasonable.

Step 3 — Verify the result: Check units, limiting cases, and order of magnitude to confirm the answer is physically reasonable.

Worked Calculation

$$R = \frac{u^2\sin 2\theta}{g} = \frac{400\times\sin 60°}{9.8} = \frac{400\times0.866}{9.8} = \frac{346.4}{9.8} \approx 35.3\,\text{m}$$

$$H = \frac{u^2\sin^2\theta}{2g} = \frac{400\times0.25}{19.6} = \frac{100}{19.6} \approx 5.1\,\text{m}$$

$$\boxed{R = \dfrac{u^2\sin 2\theta}{g},\quad H = \dfrac{u^2\sin^2\theta}{2g}}$$

Answer

$$\boxed{R = \dfrac{u^2\sin 2\theta}{g},\quad H = \dfrac{u^2\sin^2\theta}{2g}}$$

Physical Interpretation

The numerical answer is physically reasonable — matching expected orders of magnitude and dimensional analysis. The result confirms the theoretical prediction and provides quantitative insight into the system’s behaviour.


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