Javelin Release Angle and Distance
Hard
What release angle sends a javelin the farthest? Three trained athletes each throw a javelin at six different angles ranging from 20 to 45 degrees. A video camera records each throw so the actual release angle can be measured on playback.
For all three athletes, the longest throws happen at a 35-degree release angle. Throws above or below that angle cover less distance.
Hypothesis
The hypothesis is that the javelin will travel the furthest when thrown at 45°.
Method & Materials
You will need to set up a football field, get 3 javelins, 3 athletes trained in javelin throws, a 100 meter measuring tape, a DVD video-recorder, a DVD disc, a portable DVD player with screen, an assistant, a cameraman, and a protractor. The athletes will attempt 5 throws each at 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40° and 45° angles.
You will need a football field, 3 javelins, 3 athletes, a 100 meter measuring tape, a DVD video-recorder, a DVD disc, a portable DVD player with screen, an assistant, a cameraman, and a protractor.
Results
The results showed that the distance achieved for each javelin throw peaked at the release angle of 35°. This was true for all 3 athletes. The hypothesis that the javelin will travel the furthest when thrown at 45° was proven to be incorrect.
Why do this project?
This science project is interesting because it tests a very old athletic event that has been around since the 8th century. It also tests the aerodynamics and biomechanical principles involved in javelin throwing.
Also Consider
Variations of this experiment could include repeating it with a discus and shot putt, or repeating it with athletes of different heights.
Full project details
Additional information and source material for this project are available below.Related videos
These videos explain the science behind this project and demonstrate key concepts used in the experiment.
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