Equipment:
Theory: If the monkey drops from rest at the moment the bullet leaves the gun, how should the gun be aimed so the bullet strikes the monkey? Because both the monkey and the bullet fall under the influence of gravity, and the vertical motion of the bullet is completely independent from the horizontal motion, the bullet should be aimed exactly at the monkey.
Description: This is one of the classic physics demonstrations, one not to be missed. For best results, the gun should be tightly clamped to the table. Carefully aim the gun directly at the monkey. A practice shot is always a good idea, to make sure the gun is on target; just be careful not to move the gun when firing or re-loading. When loading the ball into the barrel of the gun, disarm the trigger mechanism, then arm it after the ball is loaded. The launcher has three different loading positions: the long-range position is probably optimum for this demonstration, but it depends on the distance between the gun and the monkey. 2 meters is about the minimum distance to work with.
Setup time: 20 minutes
References: (available in the demo room)
Other demonstrations in this category : Ball to throw 1D60.05 -- Howitzer and tunnel 1D60.10 -- Howitzer and tunnel on incline 1D60.15 -- Simultaneous fall (independence of x and y) 1D60.20 -- Water trough trajectory 1D60.65
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