Projectile launched over rotating reference frame

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(A)Mechanics - A+10: Frames of Reference

A rotating platform has a spring-loaded gun mounted in the middle with a paper target directly opposite. If the gun is fired while the platform is stationary it hits the paper in the middle. If the gun is fired when the platform is rapidly rotating, however, the shot will land considerably to the side on the paper.
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A+10+5
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Comments

Mx. Little

Thu, 10/23/2025 - 14:40

Thin paper and a box of about 25 projectiles, Rotating disk is in section A. The best way to do this demo is to launch and then use a pen to indicate where the paper is punctured, or perhaps a flashlight with carbon paper. Half a sheet of paper is adequate to cover the entire target, use blue tape to secure very tight in the wire frame.