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Parshall Calculator
Welcome to our interactive catapult simulator! This tool is designed to help you explore and understand the physics principles that govern projectile launching in a visual and entertaining way. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or simply curious about science, here you can experience how different variables affect an object's trajectory.
The Physics Behind the Launch
This simulator applies fundamental principles of kinematics and dynamics.
In Simple Mode, we calculate the trajectory based on the equations of ideal parabolic motion, where only gravity affects the projectile once launched.
In Advanced Mode, the simulation is more complex. The initial velocity is calculated by converting work (force times arc distance) into kinetic energy. Additionally, air resistance (drag), a force that opposes motion and depends on the speed and shape of the object, and wind, which alters the horizontal velocity of the projectile, are introduced.
As a reminder, gravity is not uniform across the planet due to various factors, so it is recommended to calculate it based on your location on the planet. You can do so here: