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An object is thrown vertically upwards from the top of a cliff with a velocity…

An object is thrown vertically upwards from the top of a cliff with a velocity of (25ms^{-1}). Find the time, in seconds, when it is 20 metres above the cliff. ([g = 10ms^{-2}]).

  • A.
    0 and 1
  • B.
    0 and 4
  • C.
    0 and 5
  • D.
    1 and 4
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation

(s = ut + frac{at^{2}}{2})

This movement is against gravity, so it is negative.

(s = ut – frac{gt^{2}}{2})

(s = 20m, u = 25ms^{-1})

(20 = 25t – frac{10t^{2}}{2} implies 20 = 25t – 5t^{2})

(5t^{2} – 25t + 20 = 0 )

(5t^{2} – 5t – 20t + 20 = 0 implies 5t(t – 1) – 20(t – 1) = 0)

(5t – 20 = text{0 or t – 1 = 0})

(t = text{1 or 4})