The answer is t = 1.49 s.
Explanation:
The motion of the shot put is a parabolic motion that can be divided into its component along the x- and the y-axis.
The question refers only to the horizontal distance (it doesn't say that the shot put must be on the ground), therefore, let's concentrate only on this component.
The horizontal component of the motion of a projectile (shot put) is a constant motion, given by the law:
x = x₀ + v₀ₓ · t
where:
v₀ₓ = v₀ · cosα
Therefore, in your case x₀ = 0 and the formula can be written as follows:
x = v₀ · cosα · t
Now, solve for t:
t = x / (v₀ · cosα)
= 40 / (35 · cos40)
= 1.492
Hence, the time taken to move horizontally 40 ft is 1.49 seconds.
