Read Projectile Motion: Resolve, Relate, Recheck
Projectile motion is two independent motions sharing one clock. Resolve the launch velocity first, then let the horizontal and vertical equations meet only through time.
Motion and force questions become simpler when direction, starting condition, time and the acting forces are marked first.
Resolve before you calculate
Take uₓ = u cos θ and uᵧ = u sin θ. Horizontal acceleration is zero; vertical acceleration is -g. Keep the two equations separate until you eliminate time.
Choose the condition that matters
Do not use the range formula unless launch and landing heights are equal.
Check the shape
For a fixed speed, complementary angles give the same range on level ground. Test whether your answer has the right sign, dimension, and limiting behaviour.
OlympIQ exam lens
- ✓Resolve the initial velocity into x and y components.
- ✓Write the condition before choosing a projectile formula.
- ✓Check whether the launch and landing heights are equal.
Using R = u² sin(2 θ)/g when the projectile lands at a different height gives the wrong answer.
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