Projectile motion is the motion of an object that is launched into the air and then moves along a curved path due to the influence of gravity. It is a combination of horizontal and vertical motion.
The factors that affect projectile motion include initial velocity, launch angle, air resistance, and the force of gravity. These factors determine the shape and distance of the projectile's trajectory.
In a vacuum, there is no air resistance, so the projectile will follow a perfect parabolic path. In air, however, the projectile will experience air resistance, which will cause it to deviate from a perfect parabola.
The maximum height of a projectile can be calculated using the equation h = (v^2 * sin^2(theta)) / 2g, where v is the initial velocity, theta is the launch angle, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. The range of a projectile can be calculated using the equation R = (v^2 * sin(2*theta)) / g.
Yes, the launch angle can greatly affect the range of a projectile. The optimal launch angle for maximum range is 45 degrees, but the range can vary depending on the initial velocity and other factors such as air resistance.