No label defined (Q4039772)

(From the Preface.) The aim of this book is to provide a readable, vivid and stimulating account of one of the most interesting, yet accessible, branches of theoretical mechanics. For countless years, Man has been faced with solving problems of projectile motion, often military, but also in sport and other fields. Many years of teaching mechanics to school and college students leave us in no doubt that projectile motion is one of the most inviting, absorbing and challenging fields of study. With even the minimum of basic mathematical techniques at his or her disposal the student can enjoy this rich store. Our approach throughout has been to provide a leisurely and readable tour, and to lead the student straight to the points of greatest interest, whilst remaining comprehensive. To this end, much necessary background material has been placed in appendices. This is in contrast with some books which deal first with vectors, differential equations, etc. Our aim is not to provide a textbook as such, but more a `travel guide' to enable the motivated reader to experience the salient points. Where appropriate, throughout the book we have provided exercises which will enhance understanding and develop a feel for the subject, which we would strongly encourage the student to complete. We have made suggestions for the longer project-type of investigation. References after question numbers refer to articles noted in the annotated bibliography in Appendix IV. Contents: 1. Introduction. 2. Preliminary theory of projectile motion. 3. The enveloping parabola. 4. Resisted motion. 5. Aerodynamic aspects of projectile motion. 6. Standardising the shot. 7. Baiera's problem. 8. The Percy Grainger problem. 9. Safe driving speeds on newly surfaced roads. 10. Modelling the flight of a javelin. 11. Throwing the cricket ball. 12. Harvesting grain. 13. Modelling the flight of a golf ball. 14. High- altitude ballistics. Appendix I. Vectors and differential equations. Appendix II. Numerical solution of differential equations. Appendix III. Computer programs. Appendix IV. Selected annotated bibliography.