Question:medium

If a body projected with a velocity of 19.6 ms⁻¹ reaches a maximum height of 9.8 m, then the range of the projectile is (Neglect air resistance)

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In projectile motion problems, recognize that values like 19.6, 9.8, and 4.9 are often multiples or factors of the acceleration due to gravity, g. Here, \(19.6 = 2g\) and \(9.8 = g\), which simplifies calculations significantly. Also, an angle of \(45^\circ\) gives the maximum possible range for a given initial speed.
Updated On: Mar 26, 2026
  • 19.6 m
  • 39.2 m
  • 78.4 m
  • 9.8 m
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Analyze the Given Data: Initial velocity, \( u = 19.6 \, \text{ms}^{-1} \). Maximum height, \( H = 9.8 \, \text{m} \). Acceleration due to gravity, \( g \approx 9.8 \, \text{ms}^{-2} \).
Step 2: Use the Maximum Height Formula to find angle \( \theta \): The formula for maximum height is: \[ H = \frac{u^2 \sin^2 \theta}{2g} \] Substitute the values: \[ 9.8 = \frac{(19.6)^2 \sin^2 \theta}{2(9.8)} \] \[ 9.8 = \frac{19.6 \times 19.6 \times \sin^2 \theta}{19.6} \] \[ 9.8 = 19.6 \sin^2 \theta \] \[ \sin^2 \theta = \frac{9.8}{19.6} = \frac{1}{2} \] \[ \sin \theta = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} \implies \theta = 45^\circ \]
Step 3: Calculate the Range (R): The formula for horizontal range is: \[ R = \frac{u^2 \sin 2\theta}{g} \] Since \( \theta = 45^\circ \), \( 2\theta = 90^\circ \) and \( \sin 90^\circ = 1 \). \[ R = \frac{(19.6)^2 (1)}{9.8} \] \[ R = \frac{19.6 \times 19.6}{9.8} \] \[ R = 2 \times 19.6 = 39.2 \, \text{m} \] Alternative Approach: We know the relation \( R = 4H \cot \theta \). From Step 2, we found \( \sin^2 \theta = 1/2 \), so \( \theta = 45^\circ \). \( \cot 45^\circ = 1 \). \[ R = 4(9.8)(1) = 39.2 \, \text{m} \]
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