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Author: leongtzekwang@gmail.com
Contact: leongtzekwang@gmail.com

Document Brief: Title: "Tracker Nerf Rocket Model by Tze Kwang Leong"

This document explores the use of Tracker software to analyze the motion of a Nerf rocket, focusing on kinematics, aerodynamics, and energy transformations. The session provides insights into projectile motion modeling and real-world applications of physics principles.

Study Guide:

Objective:

• Utilize Tracker to study the trajectory of a Nerf rocket.

• Investigate the effects of air resistance and launch angle on projectile motion.

• Compare experimental data with theoretical models.

Key Concepts:

1. Projectile Motion:

   • Understanding motion in two dimensions.

   • Analyzing displacement, velocity, and acceleration components.

2. Aerodynamics of a Nerf Rocket:

   • Effects of air resistance on velocity and range.

   • Stability factors in flight.

3. Tracker Motion Analysis:

   • Recording and calibrating Nerf rocket flight.

   • Extracting data for trajectory and velocity-time graphs.

Steps for Analysis:

1. Setup:

   • Launch a Nerf rocket at different angles and record the motion using a high-speed camera.

   • Ensure consistent initial conditions for accurate comparisons.

2. Import Video to Tracker:

   • Define the reference scale and mark the projectile's path frame by frame.

   • Analyze position-time and velocity-time graphs.

3. Compare Data with Theory:

   • Model the expected parabolic trajectory and compare with experimental results.

   • Assess deviations due to drag and launch inconsistencies.

Questions to Consider:

1. How does launch angle affect the rocket's range?

   • Answer: The optimal angle for maximum range in vacuum is 45°, but air resistance alters this.

2. What role does air resistance play in the motion?

   • Answer: Air resistance slows the rocket, shortening its range and altering its trajectory.

3. How does the Nerf rocket differ from an ideal projectile?

   • Answer: Unlike an ideal projectile, the rocket experiences aerodynamic forces that influence its stability and path.

4. Can Tracker help quantify energy loss?

   • Answer: Yes, by analyzing changes in kinetic energy over time.

5. What experimental errors might affect the results?

   • Answer: Variations in launch force, wind effects, and calibration inaccuracies.

http://weelookang.blogspot.com/2017/11/tracker-nerf-rocket-model-by-tze-kwang.html

Video

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Other Resources

FAQ:

1. How is air resistance accounted for in the analysis?

   • By comparing experimental data with theoretical predictions and noting deviations.

2. Can Tracker measure rotational effects on the rocket?

   • Limited rotational data can be extracted if clear markers are used.

3. What is the best way to ensure accuracy in tracking?

   • Use a stable camera setup, high frame rates, and careful calibration.

4. How does launch force impact flight dynamics?

   • A greater force increases initial velocity, affecting both height and range.

5. What advanced studies can be done using this model?

   • Investigating spin stabilization, varying air resistance conditions, or multi-stage launches.

Next Steps: Participants are encouraged to extend this study by testing different rocket designs, launch methods, or environmental conditions. Additional experiments may include measuring aerodynamic coefficients or optimizing launch parameters for maximum efficiency.