If two shot putters have the same release speed and angle, which is generally advantageous for range?

• A. Shorter athlete.
• B. Taller athlete.
• C. No difference between athletes.
• D. Lighter athlete.

Answer: (B)

Release height matters for range. When two shot putters throw with the same release speed and angle, the one who releases from a higher position tends to cover more horizontal distance because the shot stays in the air longer.

Reason: the time of flight depends on the vertical motion. Starting from a height h, the equation for the flight time t involves the term sqrt((v sin θ)² + 2 g h). A larger h increases t, and since horizontal distance is the horizontal speed times flight time (R = v cos θ · t), a longer flight time yields a greater range. A taller athlete typically releases from a higher point, so their shot travels farther under these conditions.