Final answer:
To find the initial speed of the projectile, we can use the equations of projectile motion. Given the launch angle (65°) and the time of flight (18 seconds), we can calculate the initial speed using the horizontal and vertical components of velocity.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the initial speed of the projectile, we can use the equations of projectile motion. In this case, we know the launch angle (65°) and the time of flight (18 seconds). Since the projectile lands at the same height as it was launched, we can assume the vertical displacement is zero. Using the equation for vertical motion, we can determine the initial vertical velocity (uy) and the time of flight.
Next, we can use the equation for horizontal motion to find the initial horizontal velocity (ux). The initial speed of the projectile can be found by combining the horizontal and vertical velocities using the Pythagorean theorem. Plug in the known values and solve for the initial speed.