Because these two components are independent, we can calculate them separately using basic trigonometry to "split" the initial launch velocity. Key Components of the Flight
The total horizontal distance the object travels from the launch point to the landing point. projectile motion
If you are digging into the math, keep these three kinematic equations in your back pocket: (Velocity-time relationship) (Displacement-time relationship) (Velocity-displacement relationship) is initial velocity, is final velocity, is acceleration (9.8 for vertical), is time, and is displacement. Because these two components are independent, we can
Helping athletes optimize the angle of a javelin throw or the "kick" of a football for maximum distance. Helping athletes optimize the angle of a javelin
The highest point in the trajectory. At this exact moment, the vertical velocity is zero, though the object is still moving horizontally. Real-World Factors: Air Resistance
The "secret" to understanding projectile motion is that it is two-dimensional. However, those two dimensions— and vertical (y) —do not interfere with each other.