THRUST EQUATION

However, there is a considerable difference between the distance traveled by the cannon versus that of the cannon ball.

To understand this, look at the Second Law (shown in the graphic) for each object.

Note that the Third Law (graphic) states these two forces must be equal Since the mass of the cannon is much greater than the mass of the cannon ball, the acceleration of the cannon ball is much greater than that of the cannon.

This is why the cannon ball flies a long distance while the cannon travels a very short distance.

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