Projectile Motion: Force vs. Time and Impulsive Force Analysis

  • Thread starter leykis101
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In summary, a projectile is fired at a speed v and angle with respect to the horizontal with no air resistance. It returns to the same level and has a range R and altitude H. The impulsive force in this case is gravity pulling down constantly. The F vs. t graph for a projectile would be a flat line. However, typically impulses are used with inelastic collisions. The force depends on the duration of the motion and the mass of the projectile. The simplest case would be a constant force "cannon" with no air resistance. The speed and angle of initial launch can be determined from the maximum height and range.
  • #1
leykis101
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A projectile is fired with speed v at an angle with respect to the horizontal. Assume no air resistance. The projectile returns to the same level and it has a range R and altitude H.

Whats the impulsive force in the case of the projectile? what does the F vs. t for the projectile look like?
 
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  • #2
leykis101 said:
what does a force versus time graph look like for a projectile?

Can you be more specific? If you just mean an object in the air here on Earth, neglecting wind resistance, the force is always the same; gravity pulls down. Constantly. So... is the answer you want just "a flat line"? Surely you wanted more than that.
 
  • #3
Typically impulses are used with inelastic collisions, such as a projectile hitting another object and indenting it somewhat. For example, imagine dropping a golf ball into a bowl of sand.

Please be more specific as to which forces you are trying to calculate. If it is a homework problem, post the whole question.
 
  • #4
Assuming a flat Earth here (R small compared to Earth's radius). Speed v, and angle of initial launch can be determined from maximumum height H and range R.

The force depends on how long it takes to go from speed 0 to speed v and the mass of the projectile. The simplest case would be an idealistic constant force "cannon".
 

1. What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object through the air or space under the influence of gravity and possibly other forces. It can be described by the motion of an object as it moves through a horizontal and vertical path, forming a curved trajectory.

2. What is the difference between force vs. time analysis and impulsive force analysis in projectile motion?

Force vs. time analysis in projectile motion involves studying the change in force on an object over a period of time, while impulsive force analysis focuses on the force exerted on an object during a short, instantaneous period of time. Impulsive force analysis is often used when studying collisions or impacts, while force vs. time analysis is more useful for understanding the overall motion of an object.

3. How does the angle of projection affect projectile motion?

The angle of projection, or the angle at which an object is launched, affects the trajectory and distance of the projectile. A higher angle of projection will result in a longer horizontal distance, while a lower angle will result in a shorter distance but a higher maximum height. The optimal angle for maximum range is 45 degrees.

4. What is the role of air resistance in projectile motion?

Air resistance, also known as drag, is a force that opposes the motion of an object through the air. In projectile motion, air resistance can affect the trajectory and speed of the object, causing it to deviate from its expected path. This force becomes more significant at higher velocities and can be minimized by using a more aerodynamic object.

5. How is the force of gravity calculated in projectile motion?

The force of gravity in projectile motion is calculated using the equation F = mg, where F is the force of gravity, m is the mass of the object, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2 near Earth's surface). This force acts on the object in a downward direction, causing it to accelerate towards the ground.

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