projectile motion

Question 1

describe the factor affecting paths of different projectiles

Answer 1

• weight and air resistance are 2 forces that affect projectiles in the air ( these 2 factors are crucial ind eciding whether a projectile has a flight path that is parabolic or non-parabolic)
• parabola (symmetrical) : in projectiles with a larger mass (shot put) the weight arrow is larger than air resistance as gravity is the greater force acting on the flight path. air resiatance is negligable
• non-parabolic: in projectiles with a lighter mass (badminton shuttle) the air resistance is the greater force affectung its path e.g. intially the shuttle starts off with a high velocity due to force form the racket but as the shuttle continues its flight path the air resistance reduces its velocity

Question 2

draw a parabolic flight path

Answer 2

shot put is parabolic

Question 3

draw a non-parabolic flight path

Answer 3

Question 4

draw a free body diagram of a shuttle cock

Answer 4

Question 5

draw a free body diagram of a shot put

Answer 5

Question 6

draw a resultant force diagram for a shotput

Answer 6

Question 7

draw a resultant force diagram for a shuttlecock

Answer 7

Question 8

describe the factors effecting the horizontal displacement of a projectile

Answer 8

1. height of release: the greater the height results in greater horizontal displacement. the force of gracity is constantly acting on the mass of the shot put so the shot putter shiuld try and release the shot at the highest point possible
**2. angle of release: **
- when release height and landing height are equal then optimum angle of release is 45 degrees e.g. long jumper
- when release height is below landing height then optimmum angle of release is greater than 45 degrees e.g. shooting in basketball
- when release height is greater than landing height then the optimum angle of release needs to be less than 45 degrees e.g. e.g. shot putt
3. speed of release: the greater the release velocity of a projectile the greater the displacement travelled e.g. the velocity that the shot leaves the hand will affect the horizontal displacement.