Final answer:
The speed of the cannonball is approximately 166.9 m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
The speed of a cannonball can be determined by considering its mechanical energy relative to the ground. In this case, the mechanical energy is given as 6.27 x 10^4 J. This energy can be equated to the kinetic energy of the cannonball, which is given by the equation:
KE = 0.5 * m * v^2
Where KE is the kinetic energy, m is the mass of the cannonball, and v is its velocity. To solve for v, we rearrange the equation:
v = sqrt(2 * KE / m)
Substituting the given values:
v = sqrt(2 * 6.27 x 10^4 J / 4.50 kg)
v = sqrt(2 * 13933.33 m^2/s^2)
v = sqrt(27866.67 m^2/s^2)
v = 166.9 m/s
Therefore, the speed of the cannonball is approximately 166.9 m/s.