While studying projectile motion, we consider ideal scenarios, where the projectile travels along its trajectory only under the influence of gravity. In real-world situations, however, other forces act on the projectile.

Consider a cargo plane that is dropping relief packages to flood victims. In predicting and studying this motion, we might consider gravity, but ignore the horizontal and vertical forces associated with drag (or air friction). Discuss this simplification. Specifically address these questions:

• Why do we often ignore drag in projectile predictions?
• What conditions (of the object, its surroundings, and its launch) do you think might make drag a significant factor in the relief package drop?
• How would drag affect the projectile's motion if it really were a significant factor in the relief package drop?