AP Flashcard 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 and air resistance. It follows a curved path called a trajectory.

Front

What factors affect the range of a projectile?

Back

The range of a projectile is affected by its initial velocity, launch angle, and the height from which it is launched.

Front

What is the acceleration of a projectile in the vertical direction?

Back

The acceleration of a projectile in the vertical direction is always -9.8 m/s² due to gravity, regardless of its motion.

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 a vacuum.

Front

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

Back

The optimal launch angle for maximum range in projectile motion, neglecting air resistance, is 45 degrees.

Front

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

Back

If launched at complementary angles (e.g., 30° and 60°), they will have the same range.

Front

What is the horizontal motion of a projectile?

Back

The horizontal motion of a projectile is uniform, meaning it moves at a constant velocity since there is no horizontal acceleration (ignoring air resistance).

Front

What happens to the vertical velocity of a projectile as it rises?

Back

As a projectile rises, its vertical velocity decreases until it reaches its peak height, where it becomes zero.

Front

What is the time of flight for a projectile?

Back

The time of flight is the total time the projectile is in the air, determined by its initial vertical velocity and the acceleration due to gravity.

Front

How do you calculate the horizontal distance traveled by a projectile?

Back

The horizontal distance (range) can be calculated using the formula: Range = (initial velocity * cos(θ)) * time of flight.