Is Gravity Impacting Projectile Range Beyond Air Resistance Effects?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the impact of gravity on the maximum range of a projectile, specifically an arrow shot at a 45-degree angle. It is established that while air resistance reduces the range, gravity also plays a significant role by decreasing the initial velocity by approximately 3 m/sec. The authors incorrectly attribute all distance loss solely to drag, neglecting the additional reduction in velocity caused by gravity during the projectile's ascent. This highlights the need for authoritative confirmation regarding the dual impact of gravity and drag on projectile motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of projectile motion principles
  • Familiarity with the effects of air resistance on projectiles
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational force and its impact on velocity
  • Ability to analyze motion using kinematic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the equations of motion for projectiles under the influence of gravity
  • Explore the effects of air resistance on different projectile shapes and materials
  • Study the concept of terminal velocity in relation to projectile motion
  • Learn about advanced projectile motion simulations using software like MATLAB or Python
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, engineers, and educators involved in the study of projectile motion, as well as anyone interested in the dynamics of arrows and other projectiles in real-world conditions.

Amateur999
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TL;DR
Drag and projectile motion
Calculated maximum range of arrow at 45 degrees with initial velocity measured horizontally is of course reduced by air resistance. BUT initial velocity at 45 is reduced because propulsive force is constant and gravity reduces velocity by about 3m/sec. So not all distance loss is drag. Authors attibute all loss to drag so i need authorative confirmation of this extra factor.
 
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Amateur999 said:
BUT initial velocity at 45 is reduced because propulsive force is constant and gravity reduces velocity by about 3m/sec.
The loss of speed as the arrow climbs is made up for by the gain as it descends and gravity is helping.
 
Amateur999 said:
BUT initial velocity at 45 is reduced because propulsive force is constant and gravity reduces velocity by about 3m/sec.
Welcome!
Could you explain that part?
 

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