Given a projectile is launched, from rest, at an angle θ and travels at a velocity V, what is the range and path of motion of the projectile? (Ignore air resistance.)

First, find the formula for the time taken, t, for the projectile to travel the distance. Using the fact that the projectile reaches a velocity of zero at a time of 0.5t when at its maximum height and acceleration due to gravity is negative, the time of flight is dependent on vertical values so; v=u+at => 0=Vsinθ-g(0.5t) => t=(2Vsinθ)/g. Now for the range, also know as maximum displacement, substitute the time taken into the distance, x, formula with horizontal values; x=ut => x=Vcosθt => x(max)=Vcosθ((2Vsinθ)/g)) => x(max)=Range=(2sinθcosθ(V)^2)/g. Using trigonometric identity sin2θ=2sinθcosθ, we have Range=(sin2θ(V)^2)/g. To find the motion of the projectile, use the equation for displacement s=ut+0.5a(t)^2, therefore in vertical terms y=Vsinθ(t)-0.5g(t)^2, and thus insert the horizontal time taken which is derived from x=Vcosθt => t=x/Vcosθ, so the path the projectile follows on the x-y plane is y=Vsinθ(x/Vcosθ)-(0.5g(x)^2)/(Vcosθ)^2. Tidying this up, and using the fact that secθ=1/cosθ and tanθ=sinθ/cosθ; this means y=xtanθ-g((xsecθ)^2)/2(V)^2. Since the equation is in the form y=ax-bx^2, for some a,b, the motion of the projectile must be parabolic. And we are done.

OD
Answered by Oskar D. Physics tutor

5618 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the Centripetal force, and how does it keep objects in circular motion?


A DVD is dropped from rest. The DVD does not reach terminal velocity before it hits the ground. Explain how the acceleration of the DVD varies from the instant it is dropped until just before it hits the ground.


This is a question on the photoelectric effect: For potassium, the work function is 3.65E-19J. Find the maximum wavelength of light that will cause photoelectrons to be emitted when shone onto potassium.


A cannon ball is shot at an angle of 60 degrees from a cliff of height 50m, if it's inital speed is 20ms^-1 what horizontal distance does it travel before hitting the ground.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences