Two identical feathered arrows are fired from two identical bows, on two
identical planets (and make all other obvious assumptions). Planet 1 has an
atmopshere like Earth's. Planet 2 has no atmosphere at all.
I am assuming that the first arrow will basically flop end-over-end, since
the feathers cannot affect the flight.
But which arrow will fly further? Will the "winner" depend on the angle of
firing? For example, if fired horizontally (and at reasonable speed-no going
into orbit), will the feathers keep the arrow fired in an atmosphere aloft
sufficiently longer to compensate for air resistance so that it will fly further?
Or will air resistance make it fly less far?
What about a 45% flight?
Straight up? Which would stay in the air longer?
Can these questions be answered with reasonable confidence?