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8
Trajectories
Now that the basics of the terminology and the dynamic equations have been presented,
we shall begin to look at their uses in the form of prediction of trajectories. The aero-bal-
listician is usually faced with one of two problems: “If I want to hit a target at position x,
to what elevation (and perhaps with how much propelling charge) do I have to elevate the
weapon?” or “My weapon is elevated to elevation x and I expect muzzle velocity y—where
is the projectile going to end up?”
To approach this in a logical and easily understandable fashion, we shall begin with a great
many simplifying assumptions, relieving these as we progress. ...