Friday, September 13, 2013

Senior Seminar Series presents "The Winning Shot" on Tuesday, September 17

Explore the mathematics behind the perfect free throw with senior Alexandria Eubank.  These seminars are open to anyone with an interest in Math topics.  This one might just "improve your game" too!

Math 450 Senior Seminar Presents
The Game Winning Shot
by 
Alexandria Eubank
Tuesday, September 17
3:05 - 3:55
in PTC 324

Abstract: The parameters of making a free throw in basketball can be calculated using the angle of elevation, the initial velocity of the ball, the position of the ball’s center, and gravity. The player only has control of the angle of the elevation and the force that the ball is thrown. We define a successful free throw using upper and lower bounds for the initial velocities possible for a given angle of elevation. Using parametric equations from physics, we then investigate changing parameters (height of the person, size of the ball, and distance from the rim) within this definition. Finally, using geometry and computer programs, the best angle of elevation and the best initial velocity are found for a perfect swoosh shot.

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