Vertical Projectile Motion

Last week we learned about polynomials and their properties. Polynomials show up in the real world a lot more than you would think! Applications can be found in physics, economics, meteorology, and more. One real-world example of a degree-two polynomial (a quadratic) is the position equation used in physics to model the vertical motion of objects such as a pop-up fly ball in baseball.

For this math-based discussion, follow the steps below. Type all math in the discussion using the Blackboard Math Editor (link to tutorial). Make sure you are giving details and explaining each step in your post.

1. Go to this link and pick a batter off of the list. Convert the average exit velocity for that batter from mph to ft/s (use Google).
2. Assuming the ball is hit at about 3.5 ft off the ground, plug your velocity into the position equation
3. Find the ordered pair for the vertex of the equation. What is the meaning of this ordered pair in the context of a fly ball?
4. Discuss how you think real-world parameters such as angle, wind speed, etc. may affect the vertex and the equation. How do you think this equation could be helpful for coaches and players?

https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/leaderboard/statcast#avg-hit-velo,r,2019