Factors affecting the flight of a projectile

Overview

Projectiles and gravity, weight, velocity, height and angle of release, the shot put below 45°, air resistance, parabolic flight, Newton's laws and the shuttlecock.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is a projectile?

   Model answer

   A projectile is a body launched into the air that is then subject only to weight and air resistance. A shot, javelin and ball are examples.

2. 2

   What is the effect of gravity on a projectile?

   Model answer

   Gravity pulls the projectile towards the ground. Weight acts downwards throughout the flight.

3. 3

   How is weight calculated?

   Model answer

   Weight is mass multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity. A 75 kg athlete weighs 75 × 9.8 = 735 N.

4. 4

   How does velocity of release affect a projectile's flight?

   Model answer

   A greater release velocity carries the projectile further. Velocity of release is the most important factor.

5. 5

   How does height of release affect a projectile's flight?

   Model answer

   A greater release height gives the projectile longer in the air. The projectile travels further horizontally.

6. 6

   How does angle of release affect a projectile's flight?

   Model answer

   The best angle is 45° when release and landing heights are equal. A lower angle is best when release is above landing height.

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