Velocity vector along a parabola

AI Thread Summary
A velocity vector along a parabola maintains the same initial and final velocity due to the constant x-axis velocity and linear y-axis velocity. The discussion centers on understanding this behavior through kinematics, particularly in the context of projectile motion under gravity. The gravitational force acts solely in the negative y direction, influencing the velocity relationships throughout the motion. The explanation is rooted in Newton's second law, which clarifies how these velocity components interact. Understanding these principles helps in proving the velocity relationships in parabolic motion.
matatat
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Hello, I'm new here and wasn't sure if this should be put into the homework section. It's not a homework question but the nature of the problem is homework-ish in nature I suppose.

Anyway I'm trying to understand why a velocity vector along a parabola would have the same initial velocity as its final velocity. I realize that velocity along the x-axis is a constant and I think the velocity along the y-axis remains linear. Although I can't figure out why both are so. Could someone explain this to me or direct me to where I would find the answer?

thanks
matt
 
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Sorry also I forgot to mention that it makes sense in the fact that it will have enough velocity to reach a point y and its velocity will be zero and as it returns its velocity will return back to the original but negative. I was more so wondering how I could prove this with kinematics.
 
I assume you're talking about a projectile thrown upwards in a gravitational field, right?

Then the behavior you describe is derived directly from Newton's second law. Namely, the gravitational force only acts in the -y direction. Can you see why this leads to the velocity relationships?
 
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