Projectile motion quiz for A Level physics: 10 questions with answers

Quick answer: Projectile motion combines a constant horizontal velocity with a vertical motion of constant acceleration g = 9.81 m/s² downwards. This Physics 11-12 quiz checks projectile motion with 10 multiple-choice questions and instant feedback; every answer comes with a short explanation.

Choose the best answer for each of the ten questions. Think about horizontal and vertical motion separately before you look at the options. Then read the explanations to find out why the other choices are wrong.

Level: Physics grades 11-12 (A Level · IB · Class 11-12) · Curriculum: A Level 3.4

What is the horizontal acceleration of a projectile if we ignore air resistance?

You drop one ball and throw another horizontally from the same height at the same moment. Which lands first?

You launch a ball at 20 m/s at 30° above the horizontal. What is the horizontal component?

What is the vertical velocity at the top of a projectile path?

Which launch angle gives the maximum range on level ground without air resistance?

You make two throws at the same speed, at 25° and 65°. How do their ranges compare?

A stone falls from a 20 m bridge while moving horizontally at 5 m/s. About how long does it fall?

How does air resistance change the shape of the path?

At the top of its flight, which statement is correct?

The time of flight on level ground is T = 2uy ÷ g. What does doubling uy do to the maximum height?

Horizontal acceleration of a projectile — Zero (no horizontal force)

Vertical acceleration of a projectile — 9.81 m/s² downwards

Horizontal launch component — u cos θ

Vertical launch component — u sin θ

Time of flight on level ground — T = 2uy ÷ g

Maximum height formula — H = uy² ÷ 2g

Range formula, level ground — R = u² sin 2θ ÷ g

Angle for maximum range — 45°, without air resistance

Link between the two motions — Time is the same for both

Effect of drag on range — Range is shorter; descent is steeper