Question

An archer shoots an arrow in the air horizontally. However, after moving some distance, the arrow falls to the ground. Name the initial force that sets the arrow in motion. Explain why the arrow ultimately falls down.

Answer 1

When an archer shoots an arrow:

1. The archer fires an arrow by using muscular power to stretch the bowstring.
2. When the string is released, it returns to its original position and provides the initial force that propels the arrow horizontally.

Gravity $\left(F_g\right)$: Gravity is a force that pulls a body toward the center of the earth or any other mass-bearing physical body.

Here are a few instances of gravity at work:

1. Gravity holds the gases in the sun together.
2. Gravity is responsible for water resting at the bottom of glass rather than floating at the top.

Air resistance:

1. When an item travels through air, it creates a force called air resistance.
2. This force acts in the inverse direction of a body moving through air.
3. The frictional force of air resistance acts on the moving body.
4. When a body moves, air resistance slows it down.

Muscular power $\left(F_m\right)$

1. Muscular strength is the ability to use certain parts of the body, such as the arms or legs.
2. It is a force produced by muscular activity and is a contact force since there is contact between the surfaces.
3. Every movement of the body necessitates the use of muscular effort.
4. Strolling, lifting, rising from a seat, crossing one's legs, and other activities all demand muscular effort.

Reason for the fall of the arrow:

1. Gravity's downward force and air resistance act on the arrow, and as a result, the arrow gradually falls to the floor.
2. The arrow starts to move in a straight line but it is pulled downwards gradually due to the gravitational force and finally falls and comes to rest.
3. Also, it slows down due to air resistance.

Hence, the muscular force is the force that sets the arrow in motion. and due to gravity force and air resistance, the arrow ultimately falls down.