At the highest point of the path of a projectile, its velocity is
Correct answer: B. horizontal only, with the vertical component zero
- A. zero in every direction
- B. horizontal only, with the vertical component zero
- C. vertical only
- D. equal to the launch velocity
Explanation
Gravity acts only vertically, so the horizontal component of velocity is unchanged throughout the flight while the vertical component falls to zero at the peak. The projectile is therefore still moving horizontally at the top, which is why its acceleration there is still g downwards even though the vertical velocity is momentarily zero.
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About Projectile Motion
Projectile motion combines uniform horizontal motion with vertically accelerated motion under gravity, assuming air resistance is neglected. Questions use the components of initial velocity to find time of flight, maximum height, horizontal range and position, while distinguishing projectile motion from general circular or one dimensional motion.
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