What is the Recoil Velocity of a Cannon Shooting a 30 kg Shell at 500 m/s?

In summary, the problem involves a 1000 kg cannon firing a 30 kg shell at an angle of 25 degrees with a speed of 500 m/s. The question is asking for the recoil velocity of the cannon. The solution may involve using conservation of momentum and understanding the concept of recoil velocity.
  • #1
Luke0034
26
1

Homework Statement


A 1000 kg cannon shoots a 30 kg shell at an angle of 25 degrees above the horizontal and a speed of 500 m/s with respect to the ground. What is the recoil velocity of the cannon?

Homework Equations


Not sure

The Attempt at a Solution


I really don't know where to begin. The chapter that this problem is in deals with center of mass, but I'm not sure how to apply that to this problem. My teacher also never taught us about recoil velocity either, so I'm pretty lost and could really use a step-by-step explanation, rather than just an answer. Thanks guys, btw I'm new here, so let me know if I didn't post this correctly or something.
 
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  • #2
You could start with a drawing where you insert all the data you have, especially the momenta and the directions in which they point.
You have a shell and a cannon, their masses, one speed known and one unknown and you may assume that the ground on which it stands is horizontal. Hint: the momenta are vectors.
 
  • #3
Have you studied conservation of..
 
  • #4
Nvm guys. I got the answer easily after I figured out it had nothing to do with center of mass, and when I figured out what recoil velocity was. I thought it was asking for how fast the barrel of the gun would fly back, but it was talking about how fast the whole tank would move backwards... easy.
 

What is the recoil velocity of a cannon?

The recoil velocity of a cannon refers to the speed at which the cannon moves backwards after firing a projectile. This phenomenon is caused by the conservation of momentum, where the force of the explosion propels the projectile forward and an equal force pushes the cannon in the opposite direction.

How is the recoil velocity of a cannon calculated?

The recoil velocity of a cannon can be calculated using the equation v = m * u / M, where v is the recoil velocity, m is the mass of the projectile, u is the velocity of the projectile, and M is the mass of the cannon. This equation is derived from the principle of conservation of momentum.

What factors affect the recoil velocity of a cannon?

The recoil velocity of a cannon can be affected by several factors, including the mass and velocity of the projectile, the mass of the cannon, and the angle at which the cannon is fired. The type of propellant used and the length of the barrel can also impact the recoil velocity.

Why is it important to consider the recoil velocity of a cannon?

The recoil velocity of a cannon is important to consider because it can affect the accuracy and stability of the cannon during firing. If the recoil velocity is too high, it can cause the cannon to move out of position and potentially cause harm to the operator or surrounding objects.

How can the recoil velocity of a cannon be reduced?

The recoil velocity of a cannon can be reduced by using a heavier cannon, a longer barrel, or a smaller, less powerful projectile. Additionally, adding a recoil-absorbing mechanism, such as a recoil buffer or hydraulic recoil system, can help reduce the impact of recoil on the cannon and its operator.

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