Halliday, Resnick & Walker — Motion in Two and Three Dimensions: Problem 84

In Fig. 4.28a, a sled moves in the negative x direction at constant speed \(v_s\) while a ball of ice is shot from the sled with a velocity \(\vec{v}_0 = v_{0x}\hat{i} + v_{0y}\hat{j}\) relative to the sled. When the ball lands, its horizontal displacement \(\Delta x_{bg}\) relative to the ground (from its launch position to its landing position) is measured. Figure 4.28b gives \(\Delta x_{bg}\) as a function of \(v_s\). Assume the ball lands at approximately its launch height. What are the values of (a) \(v_{0x}\) and (b) \(v_{0y}\)? The ball's displacement \(\Delta x_{bs}\) relative to the sled can also be measured. Assume that the sled's velocity is not changed when the ball is shot. What is \(\Delta x_{bs}\) when \(v_s\) is (c) \(5.0\text{ m/s}\) and (d) \(15\text{ m/s}\)?