The maximum range of a missile_the earth is not flat

AI Thread Summary
The discussion addresses the maximum range of a missile when considering the Earth's curvature, contrasting it with the flat Earth model where a 45-degree launch angle yields the maximum range. It highlights that accounting for the Earth's curvature complicates calculations, as it also affects gravitational uniformity and introduces the Coriolis effect, which influences trajectory based on launch direction. Participants question the purpose of such calculations, suggesting practical applications may be necessary for context. The complexities of missile trajectory in a curved Earth scenario are emphasized, indicating that simple models may not suffice. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate missile range predictions.
myleo727
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
We know if the Earth is considered flat the maximum range is obtained when the missile is launched at an angle of 45 degrees. But what if we take into account the curvature of the earth? what is the maximum arc-length of the range?:confused:
Thank you!
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
myleo727 said:
We know if the Earth is considered flat the maximum range is obtained when the missile is launched at an angle of 45 degrees. But what if we take into account the curvature of the earth? what is the maximum arc-length of the range?

Unfortunately, compromising the flat surface pretty much forces you to compromise the uniform gravitational field. Also, you'll have to consider the rotation of the Earth -- the Coriolis effect will make it so that your result depends on the direction in which you fire the missile. What do you need this calculation for?
 

Thread 'How feasible is home radio astronomy?'

Is a homemade radio telescope realistic? There seems to be a confluence of multiple technologies that makes the situation better than when I was a wee lad: software-defined radio (SDR), the easy availability of satellite dishes, surveillance drives, and fast CPUs. Let's take a step back - it is trivial to see the sun in radio. An old analog TV, a set of "rabbit ears" antenna, and you're good to go. Point the antenna at the sun (i.e. the ears are perpendicular to it) and there is...
View full post »

Thread 'Our Beautiful Universe - Photos and Videos'

This thread is dedicated to the beauty and awesomeness of our Universe. If you feel like it, please share video clips and photos (or nice animations) of space and objects in space in this thread. Your posts, clips and photos may by all means include scientific information; that does not make it less beautiful to me (n.b. the posts must of course comply with the PF guidelines, i.e. regarding science, only mainstream science is allowed, fringe/pseudoscience is not allowed). n.b. I start this...
View full post »

Similar threads

I Was the Ancient Universe More Compact Between 12,000 BC and 400 BC?
Replies
9
Views
2K
I Convincing a Flat Earther: Proving the Earth is Spherical
Replies
9
Views
2K
Coriolis Drift of Discrete Objects
Replies
3
Views
2K
Why is my calculation for a rocket's maximum range incorrect?
Replies
21
Views
2K
B Observing Orbital Mechanics from the 2nd Focus of Earth's Orbit
Replies
8
Views
2K
Effect of Rotation on the Earth and Planetary Disk(s)
Replies
8
Views
2K
A What Causes a Shift in Cosmic Ray Distribution on Earth?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Physics 1 Parabolic Motion Question Confusion
Replies
15
Views
1K
The maximum range of a missile_the earth is not flat
Replies
8
Views
4K
I Using GR to predict the shape of the entire universe?
Replies
24
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top