Unit: Kinematics, Forces & Mechanics
Projectile motion is really two motions happening at once: constant velocity horizontally, and free-fall acceleration vertically.
Why It Matters
Horizontal and vertical motion never affect each other — that's why a dropped ball and a launched ball hit the ground at the same time. It's the same idea behind Newton's Laws: forces change motion, and every force has an equal, opposite partner.
OpenStax AP Physics Chapter 3: Two-Dimensional Kinematics: A concept trailer visualizing projectile motion, independence of vectors, and trajectory pathways.
OpenStax AP Physics Chapter 4: Newton's Laws: A visual introduction to inertia, F=ma, and action-reaction pairs in dynamic environments.
Terminal Velocity and Air Resistance: Analyzes the equilibrium state when drag force perfectly balances gravitational force during free fall.
How does my smartphone know which way is up?: Explores micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), forces, and proper acceleration detected by internal accelerometers.
How does an Elevator work?: Explores the physical mechanics of counterweights, tension, and pulleys in modern hoist systems.