Range

Definition

Range is the horizontal distance traveled by a projectile from its launch point to the landing point. It depends on the initial velocity and angle of projection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The range equation for a projectile launched on level ground is given by $R = \frac{v_0^2 \sin 2\theta}{g}$, where $v_0$ is the initial velocity, $\theta$ is the launch angle, and $g$ is the acceleration due to gravity.
2. Maximum range is achieved when the projectile is launched at a 45-degree angle.
3. Range does not depend on the mass of the projectile.
4. Air resistance is typically neglected in basic range calculations.
5. For non-level ground launches, additional calculations are needed to determine range.

Review Questions

• What factors determine the range of a projectile?
• At what launch angle is maximum range achieved?
• How does air resistance affect basic range calculations?

Related terms

Projectile Motion: The motion of an object thrown or projected into the air, subject only to gravitational acceleration.

Initial Velocity: The velocity at which a projectile is launched; it has both magnitude and direction.

Launch Angle: The angle at which a projectile is launched with respect to the horizontal axis.