How do i compute distance if shot at 45degrees

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the horizontal distance a projectile travels when shot from a cannon at a 45-degree angle with a specified muzzle velocity, while ignoring air resistance. Participants explore various equations and methods to derive the distance based on the initial conditions provided.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes calculating the horizontal and vertical components of the velocity and using them to derive the time of flight and distance.
  • Another participant suggests a formula for distance based on the muzzle velocity and the angle of projection, questioning the simplicity of the approach.
  • Several participants discuss the time of flight and its relation to the vertical motion of the projectile, with varying interpretations of the equations involved.
  • There are repeated inquiries about the correctness of specific formulas and calculations, indicating uncertainty about the relationships between variables.
  • One participant introduces a formula for maximum range, while others seek clarification on the variables used in the equations.
  • Multiple participants express curiosity about the derivations and correctness of the equations presented, leading to further discussion and refinement of ideas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct formula for calculating distance, with multiple competing views and interpretations of the equations presented. Uncertainty remains regarding the application of different formulas and the conditions under which they are valid.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion over the definitions of variables and the assumptions underlying the equations, particularly regarding the angle of projection and the conditions of the projectile's motion.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying projectile motion, physics students working on related problems, or anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of motion under gravity.

joec_49
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If I shoot a ball out of a cannon with muzzle velocity of 100 fps at 45 degree angle, how do I compute how far I shoot it? Ignore air resistance for this.
 
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Horizontal component of vel. is 100cos(45deg)=70.7, which stays constant. Vertical component is 100sin(45deg)=70.7, which is subject to gravity.

The vertical distance as a function of time =vt-gt2/2, where v=70.7 and g=32. Set distance = 0 and solve for t. The non-zero solution will tell you the time it hit the ground, multiply by the horizontal velocity to get the distance.
 
so for muzzle velocity Vm, I solve for t as indicated and get Vm/16=t.
Then multiply that t by VmxCos(45) or Vm x.707; so it seems I simply
multiply muzzle velocity by .707 to get the distance for any muzzle velocity.
Is it that simple?
 
I did not understand the last remark. But anyway:

x=t*v*cos45

t=(2*v*cos45)/g

so x=(2*v2*cos452)/g where cos452=1/2

=> x=v2/g ( solution for distance in the case of 45' angle shooting)

x-required distance
v-muzzle velocity
t-time it takes for the slug to rise and fall to earth

Hope i did not do any mistakes :P...
 
Shoudn't x=(2*v^2*t*cos45^2)
and thus x=t*v^2/g instead of v^2/g
Just curious...
 
joec_49 said:
Shoudn't x=(2*v^2*t*cos45^2)
and thus x=t*v^2/g instead of v^2/g
Just curious...

?

x = vxt

Since the angle is 45 deg, and sin45 = cos45:

vy = vx = v sin(45) = 100 sin(45)

And t is the time for the object to go up and come down. So:

y = vyt - (1/2)gt² = 0

Could you solve it for t?
 
Sure t=2Vy/a - thus 2x70.7/32=4.41875 secs
which then gives 312ft for horizontal distance
from 4.41875x70.7. This all from a muzzle velocity of 100 fps
aimed at a 42degree angle

is that correct?
 
joec_49 said:
Sure t=2Vy/a - thus 2x70.7/32=4.41875 secs
which then gives 312ft for horizontal distance
from 4.41875x70.7. This all from a muzzle velocity of 100 fps
aimed at a 42degree angle

is that correct?
Very well :)

Although I thought it was an angle of 45 deg. But you get the idea, so that's fine.
 
joec_49 said:
Shoudn't x=(2*v^2*t*cos45^2)
and thus x=t*v^2/g instead of v^2/g
Just curious...

No because

x=t*v^2/g

would mean that

m=s*(m2*s2)*s2/m=m*s

m is not equal to m*s

basically the measuring units have to be the same.
 
  • #10
well...if you are shooting from level ground

then the maximum range(R) of the projectile will be

R= ( ^{}u^2 )/g

so your answer would be..approx 1020 feet...

actually for a projectile fired from level ground on solving the various equations of motion you'll get

Range = { ^{}u^2Sin2θ }/ g

here θ is the angle of projection...

this only works when the projectile is shot and lands at the same level...
so it's best to stick to the euqations of motion...but in level to level cases, this formula can save time...
 
  • #11
What is u in your reply? thanks/Joe
 
  • #12
if horizontal flight time is t=2xVxcos(45)/a
distance horizontally is txVxcos(45)
combining them is 2xv^2*cos^2(45)/a and for
100fps initial velocity on level ground, this means a distance of 312.5 feet
Note that (from above) v^2sin(2x45)/g also works and gives 312,5 ft
If this correct, thanks to all for all your help.
if this is wrong, where am I wrong?
 
  • #13
joec_49 said:
if horizontal flight time is t=2xVxcos(45)/a
distance horizontally is txVxcos(45)
combining them is 2xv^2*cos^2(45)/a and for
100fps initial velocity on level ground, this means a distance of 312.5 feet
Note that (from above) v^2sin(2x45)/g also works and gives 312,5 ft
If this correct, thanks to all for all your help.
if this is wrong, where am I wrong?

Your answer is correct
 
  • #14
thanks to all for all your help
 
  • #15
sorry...forgot to mention this in my previous post,
'u' is the initial speed of the projectile...
in this case is would be 100fps
 

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