Question

A ball is thrown from a point with a speed $v_0$ at an angle of projection $\theta$. From the same point and at the same instant, a person starts running with a constant speed $\frac{v_0}{2}$ to catch the ball. Will the person be able to catch the ball? If yes, what should be the angle of projection?

• A. Yes, $60^{\circ}$
• B. Yes,$30^{\circ}$
• C. No
• D. Yes,$45^{\circ}$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Yes, man will catch the ball, if the horizontal component of velocity becomes equal to the constant speed of man
i.e., $v_{0} \,cos\,\theta=\frac{v_{0}}{2}$
where $\theta$ is the angle of projection
or $cos\,\theta=\frac{1}{2}$
or $\theta=60^{\circ}$