Solving Horizontally-Launched Projectile Problems

The Horizontally-Launched Projectile Problems Video Tutorial shows how to analyze a physics problem involving a projectile launched horizontally from an elevated position. After discussing the concepts and formulas, there examples are done. Each example includes a different unknown variable - horizontal displacement (\(d_x\)), vertical displacement (\(d_y\)), and original horizontal velocity (\(v_{\text{ox}}\)).

The video lesson answers the following questions:

How do your solve a horizontally-launched projectile problem in Physics?

Video

You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).

To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:

Additional and Related Learning Tools

The Calculator Pad: Vectors and Projectiles, Problems #21 - #34
While these problems might be a bit pre-mature for those just being introduced to projectiles, we will mention them anyways. This page includes a large collection of physics word problems, answers, and audio-guided solutions. When it's time to solve problems, it's time to visit The Calculator Pad.

Concept Builder: Trajectory - Horizontally Launched Projectiles
This Concept Builder makes for an excellent review of both the displacement and the velocity components of a projectile. Get out a calculator and give it a try!

Concept Builder: Which One Doesn't Belong? - Projectile Motion
Have you tried a Concept Builder lately? If not, then it's time to try this one. Modeled after the popular children's game ... "One of these is not like the other ... which one doesn't belong?" Have fun. Learn.

Physics Interactives: Projectile Simulator
Who doesn't like to play? Like experiment and probe with cause-and-effect? Well, here's your chance to play with projectiles in a controlled environment. This simulation allows you to change a variety of initial parameters (height, launch angle, launch speed, etc.) and observe the effect upon the motion of a projectile.

The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions, What is a Projectile?
Our written and video Tutorials coordinate well together. For those who would like a quick reference to review the key ideas of this video, you will find what you need on this web page. It provides a big bang for your buck.

The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions, Characteristics of a Projectile's Trajectory
Like the previous link, this page provides a common sense discussion of projectile motion. It coordinates strongly with this video and is heavily adorned with informative graphics. When you need a refresher, you will find it here.

Multimedia Physics Studios, Horizontally Launched Projectiles
Sometimes you have to see it to understand it. And here's a great chance to see it! Our GIF animations can still deliver a great punch towards a student's understanding of Physics. Take some time. Study the details. Read the short amount of accompanying text.

Teacher Resources

Concept Builder: Trajectory - Horizontally Launched Projectiles
This Concept Builder will provide awesome guided practice towards the understanding of the displacement and velocity components of a projectile. Let your students know whether they should use the more precise 9.8 m/s/s or the simpler 10 m/s/s for vertical acceleration. Then set them loose to apply the principles of this video and the previous one to calculate component values.

Concept Builder: Which One Doesn't Belong? - Projectile Motion
Students love Concept Builders. This one is modeled after the popular children's game ... "One of these is not like the other ... which one doesn't belong?" Includes three levels of difficulty, immediate feedback, and question-specific help.

Physics Interactives: Projectile Simulator
This simulation provides a variable-rich enrichment for exploring fundamental concepts related to projectile motion. This simulation allows you to change a variety of initial parameters (height, launch angle, launch speed, etc.) and observe the effect upon the motion of a projectile. The simulation is accompanied by three classroom-ready handouts. Plan a lesson or two around this simulation.

The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions, Lesson 2: Projectile Motion
Our written and video Tutorials dovetail together. The written tutorial makes a great reference for students and for teachers. The pages are filled with graphics, examples, logical reasoning, and an easy-to understand language. Consider using it as your book.

Multimedia Physics Studios, Vectors and Projectiles
Our GIF animations can still deliver a great punch towards a student's understanding of Physics. Investigate our collection. They're perfect for classroom demonstrations, group discussions, and student readings.

Lesson Notes

Download (opens in a new tab) or view below

Slides

Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.