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Question

Difficulty: EasyProjectile Motion

A particle is projected from ground level at an angle to the horizontal. At its highest point of trajectory, which of the following statements correctly describes its velocity and acceleration?

  1. The vertical component of velocity is zero, the horizontal component of velocity is non-zero, and the acceleration is directed downward.Answer
  2. B
    Both the total velocity and the acceleration of the particle are zero.
  3. C
    The total velocity of the particle is zero, but its acceleration is directed downward.
  4. D
    The vertical component of velocity is at its maximum value, and the acceleration is zero.

Answer

At the highest point of projectile motion, the vertical velocity component is zero, the horizontal velocity component is non-zero, and acceleration due to gravity acts downward.
At the peak of a projectile trajectory, vertical upward velocity is fully decelerated by gravity to zero. However, horizontal velocity is maintained because there is no horizontal acceleration. Acceleration due to gravity continues to act constantly downward.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze vertical velocity at the highest point
vy=0v_y = 0
At maximum height, the upward vertical component of motion reduces to zero before the particle begins descending.
2
Analyze horizontal velocity throughout motion
vx=ucos⁡θ≠0v_x = u \cos\theta \neq 0
In the absence of air resistance, no horizontal force acts on the projectile, keeping horizontal velocity constant throughout flight.
3
Determine the direction of acceleration
a=ga = g acting vertically downward
Gravity is the only force acting on a projectile in motion, providing continuous downward acceleration.

Key Concept

Velocity components and acceleration at the apex of projectile motion
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Projectile Motion

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