mach 2, what will the missile's top speed be?
I suspect the missile will still only be able to top out at mach 2 due to dynamic forces.
Maybe the case is different with a ballistic projectile?
2007-06-13 08:58:47 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
You are correct. A missile's top speed isn't determined by the speed of the launch platform.
And your other point is correct, too. A bullet's top speed (barrel speed) IS effected by the speed of the launch platform.
2007-06-13 09:12:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Aerodynamically, it will top out at mach 2. In fact it cannot leave the plane with infinite acceleration and go from mach 1 to full speed instantly.
2007-06-13 16:07:40 · answer #2 · answered by Gene 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The missile's top speed will always be the same regardless of its intertial frame of reference speed. If it starts out going faster than it's top speed, it will eventually slow to its top speed.
2007-06-13 16:08:41 · answer #3 · answered by Pfo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋