1. What is Horizontal Projectile Motion?

Horizontal projectile motion refers to the motion of an object projected horizontally under the influence of gravity. The motion has two components: constant velocity in the horizontal direction and accelerated motion in the vertical direction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the horizontal projectile motion equations:

Where:

• \( x \) — Horizontal displacement (m)
• \( y \) — Vertical displacement (m)
• \( v \) — Initial horizontal velocity (m/s)
• \( t \) — Time (s)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s² on Earth)

Explanation: The horizontal motion has constant velocity (no acceleration), while the vertical motion has constant acceleration due to gravity.

3. Importance of Projectile Calculations

Details: These calculations are essential in physics, engineering, ballistics, and sports science to predict the trajectory of projectiles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial velocity in m/s, time in seconds, and gravity in m/s² (default is Earth's gravity 9.81 m/s²). All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does air resistance affect the calculations?
A: This calculator assumes no air resistance. In reality, air resistance would reduce both horizontal and vertical displacements.

Q2: Why is vertical displacement negative?
A: The negative sign indicates downward motion (conventionally, upward is positive in coordinate systems).

Q3: Can I use this for angled projectiles?
A: No, this is only for horizontally launched projectiles. Angled projectiles require more complex calculations.

Q4: What's the maximum height of a horizontal projectile?
A: For a purely horizontal launch, maximum height is the initial height (y=0 at launch).

Q5: How does gravity affect the results?
A: Greater gravity increases the vertical acceleration, causing the object to fall faster and reducing flight time.