Procedure for Solving Projectile Motion Problems

1.

Separate the motion into the x (horizontal) part and y (vertical) part.

2.

Consider each part separately using the appropriate equations. The equations of motion become,

(a)

x motion ( a_x =0):

v_x = v_x0 = constant

x = v_x0t

(b)

y motion ( a_y = - g ):

v_y = v_y0 - gt

$${\textstyle\frac{1}{2}}$$ y =

v_y² = v_y0² - 2gy.

3.

Solve the resulting system of equations for the unknown quantities.