Final answer:
The provided information does not specify the maximum range of the M224 60mm mortar but discusses the concept of maximum range for projectiles, typically at a 45° launch angle without air resistance and the impact of air resistance, atmospheric conditions, and Earth's curvature on high-velocity projectiles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum range of the M224 60mm mortar is not specified in the available information. However, the provided text discusses the theoretical concept of maximum range for projectiles. In physics, the maximum range of a projectile occurs at a 45° launch angle under ideal conditions without air resistance. When air resistance is present, the optimal angle decreases slightly. Additionally, the same range can be achieved with two different launch angles that sum to 90°.
The effects of air resistance, the thinning atmosphere at high altitudes, and the Earth's curvature are significant considerations for projectiles with high muzzle velocities, such as a super cannon with a muzzle velocity of 4.0 km/s. These factors would drastically influence the range and the projectile's trajectory, making simple projectile motion equations less accurate for predicting actual behavior.