What role does drag play in external ballistics?

Drag plays a significant role in external ballistics by opposing the motion of the projectile, which directly affects its velocity and distance traveled. As a projectile moves through the air, it encounters air resistance, or drag, which acts in the opposite direction to the projectile's motion. This resistance increases with the speed of the projectile and can reduce its velocity over time. Consequently, the amount of drag experienced influences how far the projectile travels and its impact upon reaching the target.

Understanding the effects of drag is crucial for accurate long-range shooting, as it allows ballistic calculations to adjust for factors that would otherwise lead to inaccuracies in hitting a target. By taking drag into account, shooters can better predict how a projectile will perform during its flight, leading to more precise adjustments and improved accuracy in their shots.