Understanding how a projectile that moves in a parabolic path

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In projectile motion, the acceleration vector (a) is always directed downward due to gravity, while the velocity vector (v) changes direction as the projectile follows a parabolic path. The discussion centers on understanding the conditions under which these two vectors can be parallel or perpendicular. It is clarified that at the peak of the trajectory, the velocity is horizontal, making it perpendicular to the downward acceleration. The conversation also questions the unusual thread title, suggesting it may not accurately reflect the complexity of the topic. Understanding these relationships is crucial for analyzing projectile motion effectively.
tatiana
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I need help understanding how a projectile that moves in a parabolic path can have a point where a-> is parallel to v-> or perpendictular to v->
Is this meaning that the lines tanget to the path are perpendicular or the actuall path?
And i would think that both parallel and perpendicluar are ppossible, yes?
 
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Why the unusual thread title?
Looks like a password :)
 


tatiana said:
I need help understanding how a projectile that moves in a parabolic path can have a point where a-> is parallel to v-> or perpendictular to v->
Is this meaning that the lines tanget to the path are perpendicular or the actuall path?
And i would think that both parallel and perpendicluar are ppossible, yes?
Well, a is always pointing downard. So what would it mean for v to be either parallel or perpendicular to that?
 

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