Projectile Motion

A projectile refers to the motion of an object that has been projected into the air or dropped and where the only forces acting on it are gravity and air resistance

The horizontal component of velocity remains constant and only the vertical component of velocity changes

Factors that affect projectile motion:

• Speed at release

Javelin: athletes sprint down the runway to build momentum, increasing the speed of their throw

Long Jump: jumpers accelerate as fast as possible before take off to transfer horizontal speed

• Angle at release

Javelin: optimal release angle (30-40 degrees) is crucial to maximise distance

Long Jump: ideal take off is usually around 18-22 degrees, as too steep of an angle reduces horizontal distance, while too shallow limits heigh

As the angle of release changes, the distance travelled by the object will vary:

30 degrees - the object will travel a moderate distance (focus on horizontal movement)

45 degrees - results in the greatest distance (balance between vertical and horizontal components of motion)

60 degrees - object will achieve more height but a shorter horizontal distance

• Height at release

Javelin: taller athletes or those with a high release point can achieve greater distance

Long Jump: jumpers aim to jump upward as they reach the take-off board, maximising their heigh at take-off

• Air resistance

Javelin: the shape and position of the javelin minimise drag

Long Jump: athletes stretch out in the flight to streamline their body shape