Q5. What can we know about a projectile’s motion as shown at right:

Background

Topic: Projectile Motion

This question is testing your understanding of the kinematics of projectile motion, specifically how acceleration and velocity change at different points along the trajectory.

Key Terms and Formulas:

• Projectile motion: The motion of an object thrown or projected into the air, subject only to gravity.

• Acceleration due to gravity: (downward)

• Horizontal acceleration: (no horizontal force acting)

• Velocity at apex: The vertical component of velocity is zero at the highest point.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Examine the diagram: The ball follows a curved, parabolic path typical of projectile motion.

2. Recall that gravity acts downward throughout the motion, so the vertical acceleration is constant and negative ().

3. Compare the acceleration at different positions: At the first, third, and fifth positions, the vertical acceleration remains the same because gravity is constant.

4. At the apex (highest point), the vertical velocity is zero, but the acceleration due to gravity is still present.

5. For the time to return to the ground: If it takes 2 s to reach the apex, consider the symmetry of projectile motion to determine the total time in the air.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!