Looking for readup on parametric projectile equation

Thread starter Matt Jacques
Start date Aug 21, 2003
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Parametric Projectile

In summary, the parametric projectile equation is a mathematical equation that describes the motion of a projectile in terms of its initial velocity, angle of launch, and time. It is derived using the principles of projectile motion and involves key variables such as initial velocity, angle of launch, time, acceleration due to gravity, and displacement. While air resistance can affect the trajectory of a projectile, it is often assumed to be negligible in the equation. The parametric projectile equation can be used for any type of projectile as long as certain assumptions hold true. It is commonly used in fields such as physics, engineering, and ballistics.

Aug 21, 2003

Matt Jacques

Hi,

Im trying to find more information about the following projectile equation:

y = (vi/k)(1-e^-kt))(sin a) + (g/k^2)(1-kt-e^-kt))

I apologize for posting this, but I have been looking high and low for this!

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Aug 21, 2003

quantumdude

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Gold Member

I don't recognize that equation at all. What physical situation is it supposed to be modeling?

1. What is the parametric projectile equation and how is it used?

The parametric projectile equation is a mathematical equation that describes the motion of a projectile in terms of its initial velocity, angle of launch, and time. It is used to calculate the position and velocity of a projectile at any given time during its flight.

2. How is the parametric projectile equation derived?

The parametric projectile equation is derived using the principles of projectile motion, which involve breaking the motion into horizontal and vertical components and using basic kinematic equations.

3. What are the key variables in the parametric projectile equation?

The key variables in the parametric projectile equation are the initial velocity (v₀), angle of launch (θ), time (t), acceleration due to gravity (g), and the horizontal and vertical components of displacement (x and y).

4. How does air resistance affect the parametric projectile equation?

Air resistance can affect the trajectory of a projectile and therefore impact the parametric projectile equation. However, in most cases, it is assumed that the effects of air resistance are negligible and do not significantly alter the equation.

5. Can the parametric projectile equation be used for any type of projectile?

Yes, the parametric projectile equation can be used for any type of projectile as long as the assumptions of projectile motion hold true, such as negligible air resistance and constant acceleration due to gravity. It is commonly used in fields such as physics, engineering, and ballistics.