Half of maximum possible projectile range

In summary, the horizontal range of a projectile on level ground can be calculated using the formula R=v02sin2\vartheta/g. To find the launch angle(s) at which the projectile will land at half of its maximum range, set 1/2R equal to the formula and solve for the angle. Since sin2x equals 1 at 45°, we can deduce that the projectile will land at half of its maximum range when the angle is either 15° or 75°.
  • #1
kerbyjonsonjr
34
0

Homework Statement



A projectile's horizontal range on level ground is R=v02sin2[tex]\vartheta[/tex]/g. At what launch angle or angles will the projectile land at half of its maximum possible range

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



All I know is that a projectile goes the furthest when the angel is 45o. I know I have to say 1/2R = the whole thing but I am not sure what to do to solve this. There are two answers. Thanks for any help! I appreciate it.
 
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  • #2
Look at your formula for the range. What's special about 45° ?
 
  • #3
gneill said:
Look at your formula for the range. What's special about 45° ?

It makes sin2x equal to 1. I GOT IT! I want the value where sin2x=.5 and that's at 15 and 75. Thank you!
 

1. What is the significance of "half of maximum possible projectile range" in projectile motion?

Half of maximum possible projectile range is an important concept in projectile motion because it represents the point at which the projectile reaches its maximum height. This is also known as the peak of the projectile's trajectory and is an important factor in determining the overall range of the projectile.

2. How is "half of maximum possible projectile range" calculated?

The calculation for half of maximum possible projectile range involves using the initial velocity, launch angle, and gravitational acceleration to determine the time at which the projectile reaches its maximum height. This time can then be used to calculate the distance traveled by the projectile at this point, which is half of the maximum possible range.

3. Why is "half of maximum possible projectile range" important in real-world applications?

In real-world applications, knowing the half of maximum possible projectile range can help in predicting the trajectory of a projectile and its potential impact point. This is important in fields such as ballistics, sports, and engineering, where precise and accurate calculations of projectile motion are necessary.

4. Can "half of maximum possible projectile range" be greater than the actual range of a projectile?

No, half of maximum possible projectile range cannot be greater than the actual range of a projectile. This is because the actual range is the total distance traveled by the projectile from its initial position to its final position, whereas half of maximum possible projectile range only represents the distance traveled at the peak of the projectile's trajectory.

5. How does air resistance affect "half of maximum possible projectile range"?

Air resistance can affect the half of maximum possible projectile range by reducing the projectile's vertical velocity and therefore, its maximum height. This results in a shorter half of maximum possible projectile range and a smaller overall range. However, the exact impact of air resistance on projectile motion depends on various factors such as the shape and size of the projectile, air density, and wind speed.

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