Muzzle and Impact Velocity Lab

In summary, the conversation is about finding the muzzle and impact velocity of a dart gun for a lab in Physics C. The equations used are the Kinematics equations and the derived equation for Initial Velocity. The motion of the dart is determined by its initial vertical and horizontal velocity components, with the time of flight being equal for both components. The effects of air resistance are considered to be negligible. The motion can be broken down into separate vertical and horizontal movements, with the net result being the sum of these movements.
  • #1
Azndoode1
11
0

Homework Statement



For a lab in Physics C, we're supposed to find the muzzle and impact velocity of a dart gun. We found x-distance, y-distance, and angle fired at, however, we were not allowed time. Our teacher wants us to graph data that is important, but I don't see how a graph would be able to show anything here...

Homework Equations



The Kinematics equations.


The Attempt at a Solution



I derived the equation for Initial Velocity to be ∆x/(√((2∆y-2∆x tan⁡(θ))/g) cos⁡(θ)). However, I'm at a loss as to what my graphs could possibly show.
 
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  • #2
Its motion vertically is determined by g and its initial vertical velocity component. Its motion horizontally is determined by its initial horizontal velocity component. You may not have measured its time of flight, but you do know that the time it takes to travel that horizontal distance is exactly equal to the time it took to perform its vertical motion. :smile:

I presume you are considering the effects of air resistance to be negligible? Otherwise, the picture is starting to get complicated.
 
  • #3
You presume correctly.

I'm not quite sure I understand what you're saying about it's motion vertically / horizontally?
 
  • #4
The motion near the Earth's surface of anything in 2 dimensions can be considered as being a combination of 2 separate and independent movements: vertical and horizontal. The net result is the sum of these. Horizontal motion is not affected by gravity, since gravity acts vertically downwards.
 
  • #5


First of all, great job on deriving the equation for initial velocity! That is a crucial step in solving this problem. As for the graphs, there are a few things you can plot that will help you visualize and understand the data better.

1. Plot the x-distance vs. time: Since you were not given time, you can use the equation you derived to calculate time for each data point. Then, plot the x-distance (which you already have) on the y-axis and time on the x-axis. This graph will show you how the x-distance changes over time, and you can see if there are any patterns or trends.

2. Plot the y-distance vs. time: Similar to the previous graph, you can plot the y-distance (which you also have) on the y-axis and time on the x-axis. This will show you how the y-distance changes over time, and you can see if there are any patterns or trends.

3. Plot the impact velocity vs. angle: Since you have data for the angle fired at and the initial velocity equation involves the angle, you can plot the impact velocity (which you can calculate using the initial velocity equation) on the y-axis and the angle on the x-axis. This will show you how the impact velocity changes with different angles, and you can see if there is a relationship between the two variables.

Overall, graphs can help you visualize and analyze the data in a more organized and understandable way. I hope this helps and good luck with your lab!
 

1. What is the purpose of the "Muzzle and Impact Velocity Lab"?

The purpose of the "Muzzle and Impact Velocity Lab" is to measure the muzzle velocity and impact velocity of a projectile, typically a bullet, in order to analyze its velocity, acceleration, and trajectory. This information can be used to make predictions about the projectile's flight and impact.

2. How is the muzzle velocity of a projectile measured in the lab?

The muzzle velocity of a projectile is typically measured using a ballistic chronograph, which uses sensors to measure the time it takes for the projectile to pass through two points. The velocity can then be calculated using the distance between the two points and the time it took to travel.

3. What factors can affect the muzzle velocity of a projectile?

The muzzle velocity of a projectile can be affected by a variety of factors, including the type and weight of the projectile, the type of weapon used, atmospheric conditions (such as air density and wind), and the quality of the ammunition being used.

4. How is the impact velocity of a projectile measured in the lab?

The impact velocity of a projectile is typically measured using high-speed cameras or sensors placed at the target. The velocity can be calculated by analyzing the footage or data collected by the sensors.

5. What is the significance of studying muzzle and impact velocity in a lab setting?

Studying muzzle and impact velocity in a lab setting allows for controlled and precise measurements, which can provide valuable data for understanding the behavior of projectiles. This information can be used to improve weapon design, ballistics, and forensic investigations, among other applications.

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