Activity 4.2.

3 Projectile Motion
Introduction
In medieval times it was believed that projectiles were pushed through the air until they reached their impetus. Once they reached that point they fell straight to the ground, almost as if they hit a wall. Galileo tested this theory and discovered that the path is actually the shape of a parabola. In fact, he determined that the path is a combination of horizontal and vertical motion. The horizontal force is constant while the vertical component fights gravity decelerating upward until it reaches the top of the path and then begins to accelerate as gravity pulls it back toward the Earth.

Equipment
Computer Americas Army Mountain Pass Simulation software Scientific Calculator

Procedure
1. Complete the Mountain Pass simulation using your notes from Projectile Motion.ppt. as a guide. 2. Provide the printout of the results for your instructor.

Conclusion
1. How might a ski jumper be able to increase jump distance by understanding projectile motion?

2. What is the optimal angle for achieving the greatest horizontal displacement?

3. Describe at least two factors other than firing angle that could be changed to impact the range.

Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2010 POE - Unit 4 Lesson 4.2 Activity 4.2.3 Projectile Motion Page 1