Physics of the Bow and Arrow
By Cvankerkhove
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Our latest unit in gym class is archery and it has me thinking quite a bit about the physics behind a bow and arrow.
For example, first of a bow is composed of a frame of some material that can stretch. Next a stein string like material is tied to each end. The tighter the string, the higher the tension. A bow with a higher tension applies a greater force and therefore the impulse delerviered to the arrow is greater, (which of course is change in momentum). Energy is transferred into the arrow which hits a target or deer etc. other factors that come into play include air resistance and the force of gravity.
Lastly, there are bows with pulleys that redistribute the force, making it easier to pull back the arrow, but still have a great force applied. The compound bow was invented by a man with the last name Bear. Thanks Bear!
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