Physics

RBA
Word Count: 2945

Research Question: How does the launch angle of a

projectile affect the time it takes to reach its maximum
height?

By Kunal Deepak
Contents:
1. Hypothesis
1.1. Statement
1.2. Derivation
2. Research Design
2.1. Deciding on a suitable research question
2.1.1. Selecting the control variables
2.1.2. Selecting the independent variable
2.1.3. Selecting the dependent variable
2.2. Methodology
2.2.1. Brainstorming possible setups
2.2.2. Description of our setup
2.2.3. Unavoidable errors and uncertainties
2.2.4. Safety procedures
3. Data Analysis
3.1. Recorded Data
3.1.1. Presenting the raw data
3.1.2. Processing the recorded data
3.2. Using uncertainties to calculate final data
3.2.1. Consideration of uncertainties
3.2.2. Final data and addressing the research question
4. Conclusion
5. Evaluation
1. Hypothesis
1.1. The time a projectile takes to reach its maximum height is directly proportional to the
sine of the launch angle. That is, a change in the sine of the launch angle causes a
proportional linear change in the time taken to reach its maximum height.
1.2. To derive the hypothesis, we will set up an equation from the equations of motion
that gives us the time taken to reach the maximum height.

We know that,
v = u + at

If we only take the components of v, u, and a,

vy = uy + ayt

But, ay = -g

Also, at the maximum height,

vy = 0

Therefore, 0 = uy – gtmax
uy = gtmax

But, uy = u * sin theta

Therefore, u sin theta = gtmax
𝑢 𝑠𝑖𝑛 θ
Therefore, (𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑥 = )
𝑔

2. Research Design:
2.1. Deciding on a suitable research question
2.1.1. Selecting the control variables
Initial Velocity (due to tension in the rubber band)
Effect: The greater the initial velocity, the more time it will take to reach the
maximum height because the projectile has more energy to counteract gravity.
Explanation: Time to reach maximum height is directly proportional to the initial
𝑢 𝑠𝑖𝑛 θ
velocity (𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑥 = where v0 is the initial velocity, and g is the
𝑔
acceleration due to gravity)
We kept the initial velocity constant by using the same extension of the rubber
band for every iteration of the experiment, that is, we pulled the rubber band
back by the same length for each iteration of the experiment.

Mass of projectile
Effect: No effect on the time to reach maximum height, assuming no air
resistance.
 Explanation: The time to reach maximum height is independent of mass because
gravity accelerates all objects equally, regardless of mass (in a vacuum).
We kept the shape constant by using the same projectile for every iteration of the
experiment.

Rubber band elasticity (or stiffness of rubber band)

Effect: More elastic bands can store and release more potential energy, resulting in a
higher initial velocity and hence increasing the time to reach the maximum height.
Explanation: A stiffer or more elastic band generates greater initial kinetic energy and
therefore a higher vertical velocity (v0).
We kept it constant by using the same rubber band for all iterations of the experiment.

Air Resistance:
• Effect: Air resistance decreases the vertical component of the initial velocity, reducing
the time taken to reach maximum height.
• Explanation: The drag force acts opposite to the motion, effectively reducing the
projectile's upward velocity over time.
• We minimized the effect of air resistance of a minimal amount by performing the
experiment indoors and turning off the fan.

Shape of the Projectile:

Aerodynamics
Streamlined shapes (e.g., spheres, cones) increase time by reducing air resistance. Non-
streamlined shapes (e.g., cubes, irregular objects) decrease time by increasing air resistance.

Surface Area
Larger surface area increases drag, reducing the upward velocity faster and decreasing time
to maximum height. Smaller surface areas reduce drag, increasing time.
We kept the shape constant by using the same projectile for every iteration of the
experiment.

2.1.2. Selecting the independent variable

We selected the independent variable to be angle of launch as we were interested
in learning about the effect of launch angles on direction of motion of projectile
as this has many real life applications and it is also interesting to learn what
angle to use to keep the projectile in the air for the longest possible time, as well
as how to achieve maximum distance travelled using the same force. This also
has many applications in achieving maximum energy efficiency in projectile
motion for a specific purpose.
The effect of launch angle: For a given initial velocity, a vertical release (90°) maximizes the
time to reach the maximum height. As the angle decreases from 90° to 0°, the vertical
component of the velocity u sin theta decreases, reducing the time to reach the maximum
height.
Explanation: The time taken to reach maximum height depends only on the vertical
𝑢 𝑠𝑖𝑛 θ
component of the velocity (𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑥 = )
𝑔

We measured this using an inbuilt measure (protractor) on adjustable inclined plane.

2.1.3. Selecting the dependent variable

We selected the dependent variable to be time taken to reach maximum height as this would
allow us to figure out two things:
Firstly, this would tell us which angle of release allows us to keep the projectile in the air for
the longest time.
Secondly, it would give us an approximate understanding of the correlation between time
taken to reach maximum height and the total distance travelled by the projectile. This would
be difficult to figure out if we took the dependant variable as range instead, because it is
much tougher for the naked eye to see time taken to reach maximum height than range.
We measured this using video analysis through an online software called ‘Logger Pro’.

2.2. Methodology

2.2.1. Brainstorming possible setups

Before landing on a final choice of a setup, I had to consider many possible factors
such as minimizing the effects of control variables on the experiment. To minimize
external influences like wind, I could conduct the experiment indoors or in a wind-
free area. I thought of using a slingshot, spring-loaded launcher or an air cannon as a
consistent mechanism to launch the projectiles at different angles while keeping the
initial velocity the same. To set the launch angles as 30°, 35°, 40°, and 45° I decided
to use a protractor. To measure the time to reach maximum height, I realised that I had
to either use a high speed camera or a motion sensor in order to achieve maximum
frame rate so that I could accurately measure the point of maximum height. Another
very important thing to achieve uniformity in my results is that I used projectiles of
uniform shape and size so that the only variable being changed was the angle. I also
did multiple trials for each angle of release to make my results reliable and accurate.

I also had to figure out how to execute the experiment to be able to determine the
effect of my independent variable on my dependant variable. That is, I had to think of
methods to calculate both initial launch angle as well as time taken to reach the
maximum height. I ended up using a protractor connected to an adjustable inclined
plane to measure the angle, and an online video analysis software called Logger Pro
to measure the time taken to reach the maximum height.

2.2.2. Description of our setup

The materials I used in the setup were:
1. Adjustable Inclined plane (with angle measure – protractor)
2. Rubber band
3. Piece of tough paper
4. Scissors
5. Screwdriver
6. Video recording device
7. Marker
8. Ping pong ball
9. Scale
10. Double sided tape

Our setup included:

1. An angular inclined plane made of two wood planks connected to each other
with a protractor so that we could measure the angle of inclination.
2. A small rectangular piece of paper (cardstock) that was big enough to place
our ping pong ball was connected to 2 screws at the edge of the inclined wood
plank using a rubber band. (We made 2 vertical cuts in the paper and ran the
rubber band through both the vertical cuts. This created a backing of sorts
where we placed the ping pong ball)
3. A scale attached to the side of the inclined wood plank and a line drawn at the
9 cm mark to ensure that we know how much distance to pull back the launch
mechanism.
4. A camera placed at a side view with respect to the setup to record video which
was used to determine the time taken to reach the maximum height using a
video analysis tool.
5. We used a ‘ping-pong’ ball as the projectile.

Difficulties faced during the creation of the setup:

1. There was a pulley attachment connected to the edge of the edge of the
adjustable inclined wood plank using a screw which caused disruptions to the
 release of the projectile. Hence, we had to use a screwdriver to remove the
pulley which was difficult as it put a stop to our work for that day and it was
also connected quite tightly.
2. We had to ensure that we pulled the rubber band back by the same length each
time to ensure consistency of results which took many attempts and required a
lot of accuracy.
3. We had to try out different pull back distances to see which one best fits in the
frame of the video while also having enough time of flight.

Steps to perform the experiment were:

1. To release the projectile from each angle, we adjust the angle using the protractor
of the inclined plane and record the trajectory of the projectile using a camera.
2. We pull the rubber band back to the 9 cm mark and release it to release the
projectile (ping pong ball).

Figure 1: Experimental setup

2.2.3. Unavoidable errors and uncertainties

 During the experiment, there were some unavoidable errors and uncertainties
that could have influenced the results. For instance, human reaction time posed a
challenge when analyzing the video to determine the exact moment the projectile
reached its maximum height. Measurement inaccuracies, such as slight
variations in the launch angle or the pull-back distance of the rubber band, were
also inevitable despite our best efforts to maintain consistency. Additionally, the
rubber band’s elasticity may have changed slightly with repeated use, affecting
the initial velocity of the projectile. Even in an indoor environment, minor air
currents or vibrations in the setup could have introduced small deviations.
Lastly, the camera’s frame rate may have been insufficient to capture the precise
instant the projectile reached its peak, leading to slight errors in timing.

2.2.4. Safety procedures

To ensure the experiment was conducted safely, several precautions were taken. The
entire setup was secured tightly to prevent any part from collapsing or shifting during
launches. Safety goggles were worn to protect against potential accidents, such as the
snapping of the rubber band or a misdirected projectile. The workspace was cleared to
eliminate hazards, and tools like scissors and screwdrivers were handled with care to
avoid injury while adjusting the setup. Additionally, we maintained a safe distance from
the setup during launches to avoid any chance of being hit by the projectile or the
mechanism itself. By taking these measures, we minimized risks while ensuring a
controlled and consistent experimental environment.

3. Data Analysis:
3.1. Recorded Data
3.1.1. Presenting the raw data
In this experiment, the data was collected by recording videos of the projectile's motion.
These recordings were then analyzed using the Logger Pro software. The software allows
you to trace the path of the projectile by marking its position at different moments during
its flight. By doing this, the software provides useful data, such as the projectile’s position
along the x-axis (horizontal) and y-axis (vertical), its velocities in both directions, and the
corresponding time stamps.

For this analysis, the focus was on using the vertical position (y-position) and time data.
Although the y-position values do not represent the actual height of the projectile above
the ground, they are consistent relative to one another. This consistency is enough to
determine when the projectile reaches its maximum height. Since the goal of the
experiment is to identify the time at which this happens, rather than the actual height
value, this approach is perfectly valid for comparing data points and analyzing the flight.
 Figure 2 : Data collection from video using Logger Pro

As shown in figure 2, we have marked a blue dot to represent each position of the ball along
its projectile path. The red line represents the distance along the x - axis with respect to time
(it decreases because the ball is moving towards the left side which makes it go closer and
closer to 0 on the x-axis in the cartesian plane. The blue parabola represents the distance
along the y – axis with respect to time.

3.1.2. Processing the recorded data

Figure 3: shows the recorded values on desmos.

To analyze the projectile's motion, we used the quadratic regression function on Desmos to
plot a graph of the projectile’s height (y-position) versus time. This resulted in a parabolic
curve, characteristic of projectile motion. The highest point of this curve, known as the
vertex, represents the maximum height of the projectile. Importantly, the x-coordinate of this
vertex corresponds to the time at which the projectile reaches its maximum height. By
identifying the vertex on the graph, we can accurately determine this point of maximum
height.

figure 4: shows the transformed graph

To accurately calculate the time, we shift the graph of the projectile’s height versus time to
the left by subtracting the time value of the first recorded data point. This transformation
effectively sets the starting point of the projectile’s motion at t=0. By doing this, we can
easily determine the time difference between the start of the projectile's path and the moment
it reaches its maximum height, which corresponds to the x-coordinate of the vertex of the
graph. This process is repeated for each of the four launch angles, allowing us to calculate the
time taken to reach the maximum height for all angles systematically and consistently.

3.2. Using uncertainties to calculate final data

3.2.1. Consideration of uncertainties
As we are using a camera to calculate the time, it is very difficult to figure out
the uncertainty. Hence, the only way to calculate uncertainty is using the formula
1
of half of the least count of the protractor that is half of 1 degree = 2 °
1
Therefore, 𝑢𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑦 = ± 2 °
 3.2.2. Final data and addressing the research question

Sr. No. Launch angle Time taken to max height

1 30 0.25
2 35 0.47
3 40 0.93
4 45 1.48

Time taken = 0.0831625× launch angle – 2.33677

For this linear equation we have: -

Slope = 0.0831625
Y intercept = -2.33677

Since the time value will be variable throughout, we can only take the relationship
value that is the slope and not the initial value.

Let time taken to reach max height be t and launch angle be θ.

Δt = Δθ x 0.0831625

Δθ 1
∴ = 0.0831625
Δt
 To make this a relationship that is applicable for any value we can make this relative
to the values.

Δθ t 1 0.25
∴ × θ = 0.0831625 × = 0.1
Δt 30

Since launch angle is the independent variable and time is the dependent variable, we
can fix up the above equation as: -

Δt θ 1
∴ Δθ × t = 0.1 = 10

∴ The rate of change of t with respect to θ, scaled to the ratio of t to θ, is proportional

to 10:1
That is,
A change in launch angle by 1× θ causes a 10 × t change in time taken to reach
maximum height

4. Conclusion:
The experiment successfully investigated the relationship between the launch angle of a
projectile and the time taken to reach its maximum height. The findings confirmed that
the time taken to reach the peak is directly proportional to the sine of the launch angle,
supporting the theoretical hypothesis derived from the equations of motion. The results
demonstrate that as the launch angle increases, the time to reach maximum height also
increases predictably, consistent with the formula tmax = u sin θ /g. For instance, at a
launch angle of 15°, the time recorded was approximately 0.05 seconds, while at 30°, it
increased to around 0.13 seconds.

Additionally, the relationship between the launch angle θ and the time taken to reach
maximum height can be further quantified. For small angles 30°, the time increases
gradually, reflecting the smaller vertical component of the initial velocity. However, as θ
approaches 45°, the time reaches its peak due to the maximum value of the sine function
at this angle. Beyond 45°, the time decreases symmetrically, mirroring the reduction in
vertical velocity. This relationship is evident in the recorded data, such as the gradual time
increase from 0.05 seconds at 15° to 0.13 seconds at 30°, which shows the proportionality
between these variables.

5. Evaluation:
Strengths:
1. Controlled Variables: Our experimental setup effectively maintained constant initial
velocity, mass, and environmental factors, ensuring that the time-to-height relationship
was solely influenced by the launch angle.
2. Accurate Data Analysis Tools: The use of Logger Pro to help with video analysis and
Desmos for graphing ensured precise and reliable data processing.
 3. Repetition for Reliability: Since we conducted multiple trials for each angle, the
random errors and reliability of the results has improved.
4. Alignment with Theory: The experimental results closely followed theoretical
predictions, indicating a well-designed investigation.

Weaknesses:
1. Systematic Errors: Human reaction time (slow reflexes/ error in reading the right value)
in marking the maximum height during video analysis may have introduced minor errors.
2. Limited Angles Tested: Since experiment only tested a few launch angles, such as 15°,
20°, 25°, and 30°, the comprehensiveness of the findings was limited.
3. Air Resistance: Although we conducted it indoors to minimize air resistance, the effect
could not be entirely eliminated, this could have impacted the accuracy of results.
4. Elasticity Variations: Repeated use of the rubber band may have altered its elasticity,
slightly affecting the consistency of initial velocity.

Improvements:
1. Use high-speed cameras or automated motion tracking to pinpoint the exact moment of
maximum height more precisely.
2. Expand the range of tested launch angles to include finer increments for a more
detailed understanding of the relationship.
3. Conduct the experiment in a vacuum or use a heavier projectile to minimize the effects
of air resistance.
4. Utilize a mechanical launching mechanism to ensure consistent initial velocity across
all trials.