Does a Bomb Dropped from a Plane Explode Directly Below It?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics of a bomb dropped from a plane, specifically whether it will explode directly below the plane when dropped. The scope includes theoretical considerations and projectile motion, with a focus on the effects of horizontal speed and air resistance.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the statement about the bomb exploding directly below the plane holds true if the plane is not flying horizontally.
  • Another participant suggests that both the plane and the bomb can be treated as points for simplification.
  • A participant expresses difficulty in translating theoretical concepts into a written format, indicating a need for clarity in the theoretical framework.
  • It is noted that the bomb retains the same horizontal speed as the plane upon release, and, in the absence of air resistance, this speed is maintained until impact with the ground.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the implications of the bomb's drop under varying conditions, particularly regarding the plane's horizontal speed. Multiple viewpoints regarding the theoretical aspects remain present.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the assumptions regarding the plane's flight path and the effects of air resistance on the bomb's trajectory.

xiphoid
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Homework Statement


A bomb is dropped from a plane flying horizontally with uniform speed. Show that the bomb will explode vertically below the plane.

Is the statement true if the plane flies with uniform speed but not horizontally?


Homework Equations


Equations of projectile perhaps


The Attempt at a Solution


Clearly, if I imagine a bomb being thrown from the front of the airplane, then I would think that this statement is relevant, don't have any idea about the consequences when the bomb will be dropped from the wings to which it is usually being attached...

Theory wise, ?
 
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I guess you can safely assume both plane and bomb to be points.
 
Then what about the theory part, I can only imagine those situations- to convert them into paper is somewhat difficult
 
I'm not sure what "theory" you are talking about. The main physics point here is that, initially, the bomb has the same horizontal speed as the plane (or its wings!) and, neglecting air resistance, maintains that horizontal speed until it hites the ground.
 
Got it.
HallsofIvy said:
I'm not sure what "theory" you are talking about. The main physics point here is that, initially, the bomb has the same horizontal speed as the plane (or its wings!) and, neglecting air resistance, maintains that horizontal speed until it hites the ground.
 

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