Question 1

Why does the cannonball follow a parabolic path?

Accepted Answer

Horizontal position grows linearly (constant speed, no air resistance). Vertical position follows y(t) = v₀sinθ·t − ½gt². Together they trace a parabola — the same shape as y = x² on a graph.

Question 2

What angle gives maximum range?

Accepted Answer

45° gives maximum range on flat ground. The range formula R = v₀²sin(2θ)/g peaks when sin(2θ) = 1, which happens at θ = 45°. Angles of 30° and 60° give equal range but different heights.

Question 3

How does gravity work in this simulator?

Accepted Answer

Gravity is −9.8 m/s² pulling straight down (y-axis). Each frame, the vertical velocity decreases. The horizontal velocity stays constant — no air resistance. The green ground catches the ball when it lands.

Question 4

Can I aim at a target?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Ask the AI to "add a wall at x = 15" or "put a target 20 meters away." Then adjust the angle and power to hit it. This is exactly how artillery calculations work in real warfare.

Question 5

Why is this a good way to learn physics?

Accepted Answer

Seeing the trajectory in 3D makes abstract equations concrete. You can rotate the view to see the arc from any angle, change parameters instantly, and understand intuitively why 45° is optimal. The graph shows what the math describes.

Shoot a Cannon