Projectile

Definition

A projectile is any object that is thrown, dropped, or otherwise launched into the air and influenced only by gravity and initial velocity. Its motion can be analyzed in two dimensions: horizontal and vertical.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The horizontal and vertical motions of a projectile are independent of each other.
2. The horizontal component of a projectile's velocity remains constant if air resistance is negligible.
3. The vertical motion of a projectile is influenced by acceleration due to gravity, commonly approximated as $9.8 \text{ m/s}^2$ downward.
4. The trajectory of a projectile follows a parabolic path under uniform gravitational field conditions.
5. At the peak of its trajectory, the vertical component of a projectile's velocity is zero.

Related terms

Trajectory:

The path followed by a projectile under the influence of gravity.

Initial Velocity: The starting speed and direction with which an object is projected.

Range:

The horizontal distance traveled by a projectile from launch to landing.