Bullet trajectory; solving for required angle of elevation

In summary, Bob needs to fire the projectile at an angle of elevation, θ, calculated using the formula θ = tan-1((v2 +/- ((v4-g(gx2+2yv2)))0.5)/gx), where v is the muzzle velocity, g is the gravity, x is the distance to the target, and y is the height of the target above the horizontal. The formula does not take into account air resistance, so any additional information about the test caliber or ballistic coefficient is not necessary.
  • #1
TylerJFisher
1
0
Homework Statement
Bob is trying to hit a stationary target 146.00m downrange, his eyes are 1.8m above the ground, firing from a standing position. The muzzle velocity of the projectile is 382.524m/sec (1255 ft/sec), wind is negligible; at what firing angle must he fire to successfully hit the target? The target is 1m above the horizontal.

DATA
Variables
T: projectile flight time in seconds
V: projectile velocity (m/s)
g: gravity in m/s^2
a (theta): required firing angle in degrees

Test/develop environment: Controlled
Overview: Set up markers to a distance of 200m, 1 marker per 25m
Program will not compensate for cross-winds, humidity, etc.

Required information:
1)Drag factor
2)Launch angle
3)Initial velocity
4)Gravity (Default: 9,8022m/s^2)
5)Shape of parabola

Variables:
T: Projectile flight time in seconds
V: Projectile velocity in m/s
g: gravity in m/s^2
a: Required firing angle in degrees

Test-caliber: Winchester Wildcat .22 High Velocity
Point: Solid
Bullet weight: 40 grains (2.59196 grams)
Muzzle velocity (m/s): 382.524
Velocity @ 100m: 1017 (18.96% decrease
Muzzle energy (ft/lbs):139.82
Energy @ 100m (ft/lbs):91.82 (34.33% decrease)
Ballistic coefficient: .100

Attempt at a solution:
Would I use this formula to find the angle of elevation?

"Angle θ required to hit coordinate (x,y)" @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trajectory_of_a_projectile

θ = tan-1((v2 +/- ((v4-g(gx2+2yv2)))0.5)/gx)

The above formula does not compensate for air resistance, so should I scrap that formula and seek an alternative derivation?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
I think you can safely ignore air resistance, the test caliber and all that useless information below it because none of that is given nor is its need implied in the statement of the problem. Just use the formula you quoted.
 

Related to Bullet trajectory; solving for required angle of elevation

1. What is bullet trajectory and why is it important?

Bullet trajectory refers to the path a bullet takes from the moment it is fired from a gun to the point of impact. It is important to understand bullet trajectory in order to accurately hit a target and to determine the necessary angle of elevation for a successful shot.

2. How is the angle of elevation calculated for a bullet's trajectory?

The angle of elevation can be calculated using trigonometry, specifically the tangent function. By knowing the distance to the target and the height of the gun, the angle of elevation can be solved for using the formula: tanθ = (height of gun)/(distance to target).

3. What factors affect a bullet's trajectory?

Several factors can affect a bullet's trajectory, including the weight and velocity of the bullet, the air resistance, the angle of elevation, and external factors such as wind and gravity. These factors must be taken into account when calculating the angle of elevation for a successful shot.

4. Can the angle of elevation be determined for all types of firearms?

Yes, the angle of elevation can be determined for all types of firearms as long as the necessary information, such as the distance to the target and the height of the gun, is known. However, different firearms may require different angles of elevation due to variations in bullet weight, velocity, and other factors.

5. How does the angle of elevation affect the accuracy of a shot?

The angle of elevation is crucial in determining the accuracy of a shot. If the angle is too high or too low, the bullet will not hit the intended target. By calculating the correct angle of elevation, the accuracy of a shot can be greatly improved, resulting in a successful hit on the target.

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