In analyzing projectile motion two assumptions can be made: “(1)the free-fall acceleration g is constant over the range of motion and is directed downward, and (2) the effect of air resistance is negligible.”
Vectors are used to separate the motion into x and y components:
“Velocity in X direction = Velocity inital * cos(theta inital)”
“Velocity in Y direction = Velocity inital * sin(theta inital)”
These equations can be substituted into the equation position vector as a function of time:
“r final= r inital + v inital t + ½at^2”
Picture taken from: http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/vectors/u3l2a.html
Information for this page taken from “Physics for
Scientists and Engineers.” By Raymond Serway.
