Final answer:
The initial velocity of the flea as it leaves the ground is approximately 2.84 m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the initial velocity as the flea leaves the ground, we need to use the kinematic equation for vertical motion:
vf^2 = vi^2 + 2ad
Where:
- vf is the final velocity (which is 0 m/s at the maximum height)
- vi is the initial velocity
- a is the acceleration (which is -9.80 m/s^2 due to gravity)
- d is the displacement (which is the maximum height, 0.360 m)
Plugging in the given values:
0 = vi^2 + 2(-9.80)(0.360)
Solving for vi:
vi = sqrt(2(9.80)(0.360))
vi ≈ 2.84 m/s
Therefore, the initial velocity of the flea as it leaves the ground is approximately 2.84 m/s.