How can you accurately find the initial velocity of a toy gun?

AI Thread Summary
To accurately find the initial velocity of a toy gun while disregarding air resistance, using a ballistic pendulum is recommended as it provides a repeatable and precise measurement. Observing the maximum height achieved by the pendulum after the toy gun fires can also yield useful data, applying the principle of conservation of energy. Additionally, utilizing a digital camera capable of slow-motion filming can help capture the projectile's motion, although resolution may be limited. Proper technique in these methods is crucial for accuracy. Overall, the combination of these approaches can effectively determine the initial velocity.
RobSGo
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Disregarding air resistance, how could you find an accurate number for the initial velocity of a toy gun?
 
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Ballistic pendulum? Fire it into a pendulum so that it sticks and see how high the pendulum goes?

Welcome to Physics Forums!
 
RobSGo said:
Disregarding air resistance, how could you find an accurate number for the initial velocity of a toy gun?

Welcome to the PF.

Why would you disregard air resistance? Do you want to know Vo or not?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

Why would you disregard air resistance? Do you want to know Vo or not?

The exit velocity is the velocity, whatever you are firing into. I think, by "disregarding air resistance" he refers to the measurement method. If he is, then observing the maximum height achieved (KE=GPE) would be a way forward (or up haha). The ballistic pendulum would be more accurate and repeatable, once he's got his technique right.
 
sophiecentaur said:
The ballistic pendulum would be more accurate and repeatable, once he's got his technique right.
The pendulum is probably the best way.

But you can also check if your digital camera supports slow motion filming. Some cameras below 500$ can film at more than 1000fps, which should be enough for a "toy gun". The pixel resolution is usually low, but sufficient if you place the camera right next to the muzzle.
 

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