To calculate the velocity of a projectile, there are two formulas that can be used, depending on the information available:
Velocity formula using initial velocity and time: If you know the initial velocity (V₀) and the time of flight (t), you can use the formula:
V = V₀ + gt,
where: V = final velocity, g = acceleration due to gravity (-9.8 m/s²).
This formula is used when you have the initial velocity and the time taken for the projectile to reach a certain point.
Velocity formula using initial and final positions: If you know the initial position (y₀), final position (y), and the time of flight (t), you can use the formula:
V = (y - y₀) / t,
where: V = average velocity, y₀ = initial vertical position, y = final vertical position, t = time of flight.
This formula is used when you have the initial and final positions of the projectile and the time taken to travel between them.
Both formulas can be used to calculate the projectile's velocity. However, the appropriate formula to use depends on the given information. If you have the initial velocity and time, use the first formula. If you have the initial and final positions along with the time of flight, use the second formula.