Launching projectile from north pole to equator

In summary, the maximum distance a projectile can travel from the North Pole to the Equator is approximately 10,000 kilometers, depending on factors such as initial velocity, angle of launch, and air resistance. A projectile launched from the North Pole can reach the Equator if it has enough initial velocity and is launched at the correct angle, but would experience a significant deflection to the east due to the Earth's rotation. The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, would also affect the trajectory of the projectile, with the ideal angle for launch being approximately 45 degrees. Air resistance, or drag, would decrease the distance a projectile can travel, but this can be minimized with a more aerodynamic shape or higher initial velocity
  • #1
greaser
2
0
I am trying to find what velocity and angle of launch is required for a projectile to be fired from the North pole and land somewhere on the equator. I was thinking 45 degrees with muzzle velocity 9401m/s but that sounds ridiculous. Also how much time would it be in the air for?
 
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  • #2
You also posted this under "General Physics". Please do not post the same thing multiple times.
 
  • #3
Are you neglecting air friction?

This isn't a simple plug and chug. That path will be sub-orbital.

9.5 km/sec is high, but you're in the right ballpark.
 

1. What is the maximum distance a projectile can travel from the North Pole to the Equator?

The maximum distance a projectile can travel from the North Pole to the Equator depends on various factors such as the initial velocity, angle of launch, and air resistance. However, theoretically, the maximum distance would be approximately 10,000 kilometers.

2. Can a projectile launched from the North Pole reach the Equator?

Yes, a projectile launched from the North Pole can reach the Equator if it has enough initial velocity and is launched at the correct angle. However, due to the Earth's rotation, the projectile would experience a significant deflection to the east, making it difficult to reach the Equator directly.

3. How does the Coriolis effect affect a projectile launched from the North Pole towards the Equator?

The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, would cause a projectile launched from the North Pole towards the Equator to deflect to the east. This is because the Earth's surface is moving faster at the Equator than at the poles, causing a difference in the trajectory of the projectile.

4. What is the ideal angle for launching a projectile from the North Pole to reach the Equator?

The ideal angle for launching a projectile from the North Pole to reach the Equator would be approximately 45 degrees. This angle would allow the projectile to travel the furthest distance without being significantly affected by the Coriolis effect.

5. How does air resistance affect a projectile launched from the North Pole towards the Equator?

Air resistance, also known as drag, would decrease the distance a projectile can travel from the North Pole to the Equator. This is because the air molecules would slow down the projectile, causing it to lose energy and distance. A more aerodynamic shape or higher initial velocity can help minimize the effects of air resistance.

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