How Does Launch Angle Affect Projectile Range?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between launch angle and range in an experiment. From the equation R=v^2sin2θ/g, it can be concluded that the range increases until the angle reaches 45 degrees, then decreases due to sin2θ. The graph for range vs. launch angle should be a symmetrical upside-down parabola for the same initial and final heights. However, the effect of different initial and final heights on the symmetry of the parabola is unclear. The speaker is unsure if the correct graph is B or C. The discussion also mentions that the trajectory graph and height vs. time curve should be parabolas. The speaker suggests using a computer to plot out sample angles to determine the characteristics of
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Temper888
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1.1. Which of the following graphs BEST depicts the relationship between launch angle and range in the experiment?Please explain how you arrived to the answer.Attached is the graphs and the Experiment model.

Attached is the graphs and the Experiment model.The question is asking what happens to the range if the launch is increased? From equation R=v^2sin2θ/g, it can be said that range increases until the angle increases to 45 and then decreases from 45 and above because of sin2θ. The graph for range vs. launch angle should be a symmetrical upside-down parabola for same initial and final heights. However, I cannot figure out how does different initial and final heights as in this experiment affect the symmetry of that parabola?

3. I guessed it to be either Graph B or Graph C, but I am not sure.
 
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Attached is the graphs and the Experiment model.
Try again - the attachments don't always get loaded.

The graph for range vs. launch angle should be a symmetrical upside-down parabola
Nope - it should be a sine curve... like the equation you quoted.
The graph of the trajectory should be a parabola, as should the height vs time curve.

However, I cannot figure out how does different initial and final heights as in this experiment affect the symmetry of that parabola?
Really? Then try doing some sample angles and plotting them out - this is what computers are good at after all. (Since ou have some example graphs, I bet you can find telltale characteristics.)

Thought experiment - if you fire at 90deg from the top of a cliff, your range is ______. How does that compare with the range at zero height? Repeat question for 0deg angle.
 
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Related to How Does Launch Angle Affect Projectile Range?

1. What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object that is launched or thrown into the air and then moves along a curved path due to the force of gravity.

2. What is the range of a projectile?

The range of a projectile is the horizontal distance traveled by the object before it hits the ground. It depends on the initial velocity, angle of launch, and the acceleration due to gravity.

3. How is the range of a projectile calculated?

The range of a projectile can be calculated using the equation: R = (v2 sin(2θ))/g, where R is the range, v is the initial velocity, θ is the angle of launch, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

4. Does the mass of a projectile affect its range?

No, the mass of a projectile does not affect its range. The range of a projectile only depends on the initial velocity and angle of launch, not the mass of the object.

5. How does air resistance affect the range of a projectile?

Air resistance can decrease the range of a projectile because it acts as a resisting force, slowing down the object's horizontal velocity. However, for most projectiles, the effects of air resistance are minimal and can be neglected in calculations.

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