What does the term 'Max Ordinate' refer to in relation to a round's flight path?

The term 'Max Ordinate' refers specifically to the point in a projectile's trajectory where it reaches its maximum height above the line of sight. This concept is crucial in understanding how projectiles, including those fired from machine guns, behave once they leave the barrel.

When a round is fired, it follows a parabolic flight path due to the influence of gravity. As the round ascends, it eventually reaches a peak height before beginning its descent toward the target. The maximum ordinate is the highest point of that trajectory. This understanding allows gunners to effectively account for the arc of the bullet's trajectory when aiming, particularly at longer ranges or when targeting elevated positions.

In contrast, the other concepts mentioned do not accurately capture the significance of the Max Ordinate. For instance, the lowest point of the round's trajectory refers to the initial firing elevation or the lowest descent point, which is not relevant here. The direct distance to the target does not take into account the vertical aspect of the bullet's flight path, and the average height of rounds fired would not provide specific information about the peak elevation related to individual rounds. Understanding Max Ordinate is essential for precise aiming and effective engagement of targets in various terrains and distances.