Projectile Motion

Front

What is projectile motion?

Back

Projectile motion is the motion of an object that is thrown into the air and is subject to the force of gravity. It follows a curved path called a trajectory.

Front

What factors affect the distance a projectile travels?

Back

The initial velocity, launch angle, and height of the launch point all affect the distance a projectile travels.

Front

What is the optimal angle for maximum range in projectile motion?

Back

The optimal angle for maximum range in projectile motion, in the absence of air resistance, is 45 degrees.

Front

How does air resistance affect projectile motion?

Back

Air resistance opposes the motion of the projectile, reducing its range and altering its trajectory compared to motion in a vacuum.

Front

What is the difference between horizontal and vertical motion in projectile motion?

Back

Horizontal motion is uniform (constant velocity), while vertical motion is influenced by gravity, resulting in acceleration downwards.

Front

If two projectiles are launched at the same speed but different angles, how do their ranges compare?

Back

They will have the same range if their angles add up to 90 degrees (e.g., 30 degrees and 60 degrees) due to the symmetry of projectile motion.

Front

What is the time of flight in projectile motion?

Back

The time of flight is the total time a projectile is in the air from launch until it hits the ground.

Front

How do you calculate the time of flight for a projectile launched horizontally?

Back

Time of flight can be calculated using the formula: t = √(2h/g), where h is the height and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

Front

What is the role of gravity in projectile motion?

Back

Gravity acts downward on the projectile, causing it to accelerate downwards at approximately 9.81 m/s², affecting its vertical motion.

Front

What is the trajectory of a projectile?

Back

The trajectory is the path that a projectile follows through space, typically a parabolic shape in the absence of air resistance.