This applet illustrates
projectile motion. A body is launched
with fixed speed and with user-variable launch angle and air
resistance proportional to the velocity of the body. The applet animates the
resulting trajectory.
The unit of length in this applet is the maximum horizontal distance the
projectile can travel with no air resistance present. The unit of time is the
time taken for a projectile fired directly upwards with no air resistance
to reach its maximum height.
Instructions for use
- Enter the dimensionless damping coefficient (the ratio of initial
speed to terminal speed). This coefficient is zero when no air resistance
is present.
- Enter the launch angle measured in degrees from the horizontal.
The order in which you enter the damping and launch angle doesn't
matter.
- Click "Launch".
- Repeat as often as desired. To clear the screen, click "Clear".