Common Free-Fall Pitfalls

The video addresses common misconceptions about objects in freefall, such as the belief that upward acceleration is positive, initial velocity for upward motion is zero, and acceleration at the top of the path is zero. Through explanations and examples, the video clarifies that acceleration due to gravity is always negative 9.81 m/s², regardless of the object's motion direction. The video concludes with a review of these key points.

What is the acceleration due to gravity for an object in freefall on Earth?

• 19.62 m/s² downward

• 0 m/s²

• 9.81 m/s² downward

• 9.81 m/s² upward

If a ball is thrown upwards, what is the direction of its acceleration?

• Upward and positive

• Upward and negative

• Downward and negative

• Downward and positive

What must be true for an object to move upward when thrown?

• Its initial velocity must be equal to gravity

• Its initial velocity must be positive

• Its initial velocity must be negative

• Its initial velocity must be zero

Why does a ball thrown downward not accelerate more than a dropped ball?

• Because the dropped ball is lighter

• Because the thrown ball is heavier

• Because the thrown ball has more initial velocity

• Because both are in freefall and have the same acceleration

What is the velocity of an object in freefall at the top of its path?

• 19.62 m/s upward

• 9.81 m/s downward

• 0 m/s

• 9.81 m/s upward

What is the acceleration of an object in freefall at the top of its path?

• 0 m/s²

• 9.81 m/s² upward

• 19.62 m/s² downward

• 9.81 m/s² downward

If the acceleration at the top of the path were zero, what would happen to the object?

• It would fall faster

• It would stop and float

• It would continue moving upward

• It would move sideways