Select the letter to the left of the applet to initialize Problem K.

The following problems are borrowed from "Solving an 'Unsolvable' Projectile-Motion Problem", David Montalvo, TPT, vol.37, April, '99, p.226. The 3 problems are variations on the same situation. Sure, they're easy to do by trial and error.  But can you successfully predict the answers before testing them?  An explicit solution in terms of q isn't possible.  However, a graphing calculator may come in handy.

The Gunner's Problem:  A cannon fires a projectile in order to intercept a tank moving toward the cannon's position at constant velocity.  Without changing the speed of the projectile or the velocity of the tank, find the angle of the cannon necessary to strike the target.  (There are 2 solutions.)

Reinitialize Problem K to continue.

The Yeoman's Problem:  An arrow is shot from a bow at a fixed angle.  Find the speed of the arrow needed to strike a target moving toward the bow at constant velocity.

Reinitialize Problem K to continue.

The Wide Receiver's Problem:  A quarterback throws a football at a given angle and speed.  Find the velocity at which the receiver must run to catch the ball.

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