The most important fact to remember here is that motions along perpendicular axes are independent and thus can be analyzed separately. In this section, we consider two-dimensional projectile motion, and our treatment neglects the effects of air resistance. The motion of falling objects as discussed in Motion Along a Straight Line is a simple one-dimensional type of projectile motion in which there is no horizontal movement. Such objects are called projectiles and their path is called a trajectory. Some examples include meteors as they enter Earth’s atmosphere, fireworks, and the motion of any ball in sports. The applications of projectile motion in physics and engineering are numerous. Projectile motion is the motion of an object thrown or projected into the air, subject only to acceleration as a result of gravity.
Calculate the range, time of flight, and maximum height of a projectile that is launched and impacts a flat, horizontal surface.Use one-dimensional motion in perpendicular directions to analyze projectile motion.By the end of this section, you will be able to:
