= Polar projectile Coriolis deflection
{title2=$d=\Omega u\cos\theta\,(2u\sin\theta/g)^2$}
In a flat uniform-gravity model at the North pole, <Earth's rotation> is vertical. To first order in angular <speed>, the horizontal component $u\cos\theta$ gives constant transverse <Coriolis acceleration> $-2\Omega u\cos\theta$ toward the right of the aiming direction. The return flight time is $2u\sin\theta/g$, proving the displayed miss distance. At the maximum unperturbed range, $\theta=45^\circ$, it becomes $\sqrt2\Omega u^3/g^2$. <curvature>, varying gravity, air drag and second-order rotational terms are excluded.
Back to article page
