ATA Bow Tech Bow Mechanics & Physics Flashcards

What is 'draw force curve' in archery?

Answer: A graph showing the relationship between draw length and draw weight throughout the draw cycle

The draw force curve illustrates how peak weight builds and then decreases at let-off as the shooter pulls the bow to full draw.

How does increasing draw weight affect kinetic energy delivered to the arrow?

Answer: Higher draw weight increases kinetic energy, improving penetration

Kinetic energy (½mv²) increases with arrow speed, which rises with higher draw weight, resulting in deeper penetration on game.

What is 'valley' in the context of a compound bow's draw cycle?

Answer: The point in the draw cycle where let-off is achieved and holding weight is at its lowest

The valley is the comfortable holding zone at full draw where the cam has rotated through peak weight and let-off is engaged.

Arrow spine refers to which property of an arrow?

Answer: The stiffness or resistance to bending under a given load

Spine is the standardized measure of an arrow's lateral stiffness, critical for matching arrows to a specific bow's draw weight and length.

What physical phenomenon causes an arrow to bend and oscillate as it leaves the bow?

Answer: Archer's paradox

Archer's paradox is the bending and oscillation of the arrow shaft as it navigates around the riser during the power stroke.

What is the primary purpose of a bow stabilizer?

Answer: To reduce vibration and rotational torque, improving balance and accuracy

Stabilizers add forward weight and dampen vibration, reducing bow movement at the shot for improved accuracy.