Projectile motion with linear drag

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the analysis of projectile motion under the influence of a linear drag force defined by D = −b∗v. The forum participants derive equations for vertical and horizontal motion, specifically for velocity vz(t) and position z(t) in vertical drops, as well as velocity vx(t) and position x(t) in horizontal motion. Additionally, they combine these equations to formulate the trajectory z(x) and the range of the projectile, comparing it with the range obtained without drag. The key takeaway is the significant impact of linear drag on the projectile's range and trajectory.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts related to projectile motion
  • Familiarity with linear drag forces and their mathematical representation
  • Knowledge of differential equations for motion analysis
  • Ability to manipulate and solve equations for velocity and position
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of equations for projectile motion with linear drag
  • Learn about the effects of varying drag coefficients on projectile trajectories
  • Explore numerical methods for simulating projectile motion under drag
  • Investigate the comparison of linear drag with other forms of drag, such as quadratic drag
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, engineers involved in projectile design, and anyone interested in the dynamics of motion affected by drag forces.

ewelinaaa
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Homework Statement
We consider a projectile motion against a linear drag force D = −b∗v, where v is the velocity
of the projectile.
(A) Suppose only a vertical drop (in z-direction), v = vz, from an initial height H with
an initial velocity voz = 0. Obtain the corresponding equations for (a) velocity vz(t), (b)
vertical position change of the projectile z(t).
(B) Consider now only a horizontal motion (with drag) v = vx, from an initial height H and
with an initial horizontal velocity vox. Obtain the corresponding equations for (a) velocity
vx(t), (b) horizontal position change of the projectile x(t).

Combine the horizontal and vertical equations of motion for a projectile moving against a
linear drag force, see a previous task, to (A) obtain an equation of the trajectory of the
projectile, i.e., z(x). (B) Obtain an equation for the RANGE (i.e., maximum horizontal
distance reached) of the projectile. (C) Compare the range equation with an equation for
range obtained in the case of vanishing drag force. Discuss the differences.
Relevant Equations
D = −b∗v
.
 
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ewelinaaa said:
Homework Statement: We consider a projectile motion against a linear drag force D = −b∗v, where v is the velocity
of the projectile.
(A) Suppose only a vertical drop (in z-direction), v = vz, from an initial height H with
an initial velocity voz = 0. Obtain the corresponding equations for (a) velocity vz(t), (b)
vertical position change of the projectile z(t).
(B) Consider now only a horizontal motion (with drag) v = vx, from an initial height H and
with an initial horizontal velocity vox. Obtain the corresponding equations for (a) velocity
vx(t), (b) horizontal position change of the projectile x(t).

Combine the horizontal and vertical equations of motion for a projectile moving against a
linear drag force, see a previous task, to (A) obtain an equation of the trajectory of the
projectile, i.e., z(x). (B) Obtain an equation for the RANGE (i.e., maximum horizontal
distance reached) of the projectile. (C) Compare the range equation with an equation for
range obtained in the case of vanishing drag force. Discuss the differences.
Homework Equations: D = −b∗v

.
Per forum rules , please post an attempt.
 

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