The Inspirational Journey of a Grasshopper

How does a grasshopper move along a level road?

The grasshopper hops along the road at an angle θ0=45∘ and achieves a range R = 0.78 m. What is the average horizontal speed of the grasshopper as it hops along the road?

The Average Horizontal Speed of a Grasshopper

The average horizontal speed of the grasshopper is equal to the initial velocity when the projection angle is 45 degrees.

Grasshoppers are fascinating creatures that move in unique ways. When a grasshopper hops along a level road, it launches itself at an angle of 45 degrees and achieves a range of 0.78 meters. To determine the average horizontal speed of the grasshopper during its journey, we need to consider the principles of projectile motion and average speed.

To solve this problem, we utilize the formula for the range of a projectile launched at an angle, given by R = (Vᵢ² sin 2θ) / g, where R is the range, Vᵢ is the initial velocity, θ is the angle of projection, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

Given that the angle of projection is 45 degrees and the range is 0.78 meters, we can rearrange the formula to find the initial velocity, Vᵢ. Then, we calculate the total time taken by dividing the range by the initial velocity, t = R / Vᵢ. The average horizontal speed, which is the magnitude of the horizontal velocity, is then determined to be equal to the initial velocity.

Understanding the physics behind the movement of a grasshopper can shed light on the remarkable agility and speed of these creatures. By studying their behavior, we can appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature's designs.