1. What is Horizontal Projectile Velocity?

Horizontal projectile velocity (v_x) is the constant horizontal component of a projectile's motion. It remains unchanged throughout the flight (ignoring air resistance) and is determined by the initial velocity and launch angle.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the horizontal velocity formula:

Where:

• \( v_x \) — Horizontal velocity (m/s)
• \( u \) — Initial velocity (m/s)
• \( \theta \) — Launch angle (degrees)

Explanation: The horizontal component of velocity is calculated by multiplying the initial velocity by the cosine of the launch angle.

3. Importance of Horizontal Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating horizontal velocity is essential for predicting projectile range, analyzing motion trajectories, and solving problems in physics and engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial velocity in m/s and launch angle in degrees (0-90°). All values must be valid (velocity > 0, angle between 0-90).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does horizontal velocity remain constant?
A: In ideal projectile motion (ignoring air resistance), no horizontal forces act on the projectile, so horizontal velocity remains constant throughout the flight.

Q2: What happens at a 90-degree launch angle?
A: At 90° (straight up), cos(90°) = 0, so horizontal velocity is zero. The projectile moves only vertically.

Q3: What is the maximum horizontal velocity possible?
A: Maximum horizontal velocity occurs at a 0° launch angle (horizontal launch), where cos(0°) = 1, giving v_x = u.

Q4: Does mass affect horizontal velocity?
A: No, mass does not affect horizontal velocity in projectile motion (in the absence of air resistance).

Q5: How is this different from vertical velocity?
A: Horizontal velocity remains constant, while vertical velocity changes due to gravity's acceleration.