Calculating Projectile Trajectories in 3D Space: Applying Physics and Calculus

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating projectile trajectories in 3D space, specifically targeting a moving enemy ship with a constant velocity from a stationary origin. The key challenge is determining the correct angle to fire a missile so that it intersects with the ship's path at the same time. The solution involves deriving time-dependent equations for both the projectile and the ship, likely using parametric equations and fundamental physics principles. The discussion emphasizes the need to apply calculus and physics to solve this real-time trajectory problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 3D calculus, specifically Calculus III concepts
  • Familiarity with projectile motion equations in physics
  • Knowledge of parametric equations and their applications
  • Basic principles of velocity and time in motion analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of projectile motion equations in three dimensions
  • Learn how to apply parametric equations to model moving objects
  • Explore the physics of relative motion and collision prediction
  • Investigate numerical methods for solving time-dependent equations
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Students and professionals in physics, mathematics, and engineering fields, particularly those interested in motion analysis and trajectory calculations in 3D environments.

pattiecake
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Forgive me if this is deemed a "homework question", b/c it kinda is, but I'm thinking about it a little differently...

It's a 3 dimensional calc. III problem, that I've broken down to this: Essentially there's an "enemy ship" traveling in a straight line at a constant velocity. I'm stationed at the origin and I want to fire at the ship (I know the speed the missle will fire at). So how do I determine at what angle to fire the missle so that it hits the moving target? I know it really boils down to a simple physics equation that I should remember from a million years ago..but, I don't... HELP! :bugeye:
 
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it is a time problem, find equations in terms of time which describe the path taken by the projectile and one which describes the ships path. Find the point they arrive at at the same time.
 
Exactly...how do I find these time equations? Would they be parametric? Would they be based off of some simple physics equations that I'm just missing?
 

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