Quick answer: Projectile motion is two-dimensional motion under gravity alone. This AP Physics 1 test on projectile motion has 8 questions worth 20 marks, to do in 45 minutes: acceleration at the top, horizontal velocity and cliff throw. The mark scheme is on a separate page; free printable PDF.
This test lasts 45 minutes and is worth 20 points. use g = 9.81 m/s², show all working and include units. Calculators are allowed.
Level: AP Physics 1 (algebra-based) · Curriculum: AP P1 Unit 1
Question 1 Acceleration at the top (1 mark)
State the acceleration of a projectile at the highest point of its path. (1 mark)Question 2 Horizontal velocity (1 mark)
State why the horizontal velocity of a projectile is constant. (1 mark)Question 3 Cliff throw (5 marks)
A ball is thrown horizontally at 15 m/s from a cliff 20 m high (see the figure).- Calculate the time to reach the ground. (2 marks)
- Then, calculate the horizontal distance from the cliff to the landing point. (1 mark)
- Finally, calculate the speed of the ball just before it lands. (2 marks)
Question 4 Components (2 marks)
A velocity of 24 m/s is directed 35° above the horizontal.- Calculate the horizontal component. (1 mark)
- Then, calculate the vertical component. (1 mark)
Question 5 Boat on a river (3 marks)
A boat heads straight across a river at 4.0 m/s relative to the water. In addition, the current flows at 3.0 m/s and the river is 100 m wide.- Calculate the crossing time. (1 mark)
- Then, calculate the downstream drift. (1 mark)
- Finally, calculate the speed relative to the bank. (1 mark)
Question 6 Kicked ball (4 marks)
A ball is kicked from level ground at 22 m/s, 45° above the horizontal.- Calculate the time of flight. (2 marks)
- Then, calculate the range. (2 marks)
Question 7 Explain the landing (2 marks)
Two identical balls leave the edge of a table together. Also, one is dropped and the other is pushed horizontally. Next, explain why they hit the floor at the same time. (2 marks)Question 8 Equal ranges (2 marks)
A cannon fires a shell at 30° and then, with the same speed, at 60°. Then, predict how the two ranges compare and explain. (2 marks)
