projectile motion

Question 1

What is a projectile?

Answer 1

A projectile is any object that is thrown or propelled into the air and is only acted on by gravity and air resistance after release.

Question 2

What are the 3 key factors that affect a projectile’s flight path?

Answer 2

Speed of release – more speed = more range.

Angle of release – ideal is 45° for maximum distance (in theory).

Height of release – a higher release point increases range.

Question 3

What does the Bernoulli Principle state?

Answer 3

It states that as velocity of a fluid (air) increases, pressure decreases.

Faster air = lower pressure

Slower air = higher pressure
Creates lift or downforce depending on airflow design.

Question 4

Bernoulli-Lift force

Answer 4

Above:
-Air must travel further around 1 side of the discuss
=Higher velocity
=Lower pressure
Below:
-Air must travel shorter distance
=Slower velocity
= Higher pressure
-Pressure differential established, air moves from area of high pressure to low pressure
=Lift force and will hang in air longer

Question 5

Types of spin and what they achieve

Answer 5

Topspin- shorten path, make ball dip, attacking
Backspin-Lengthen path, make ball hang, defensive
Sidespin-swerve, referred to as a hook