Projectile motion involves two components: horizontal and vertical motions, which are independent of each other.
The only force acting on a projectile in free fall is gravity, assuming air resistance is negligible.
The horizontal component of a projectile's velocity remains constant throughout its flight.
The vertical component of a projectile's velocity changes at a constant rate due to the acceleration caused by gravity.
The trajectory of a projectile follows a parabolic path.
Review Questions
What are the two independent components of projectile motion?
How does gravity affect the vertical component of a projectile's velocity?
Why does the horizontal component of a projectile's velocity remain constant?
Related terms
Displacement: Displacement refers to the change in position of an object from its initial point to its final point.
Velocity: Velocity is the rate at which an object changes its position. It has both magnitude and direction.
Acceleration: \text{Acceleration} is the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time; it can occur as a result of changes in speed or direction.