A projectile is launched vertically upward at 50 m/s. If air resistance does affect motion, then its speed upon returning to its starting point is
A)less than 50 m/s.
B)50 m/s.
C)more than 50 m/s.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a projectile is launched vertically upward with a certain initial velocity, it slows down as it moves upward against the force of gravity until it reaches its highest point where its velocity becomes zero. On its way back down, it gains speed due to gravity. However, if air resistance affects its motion, it will slow down during its ascent and have less velocity when it reaches its highest point than it would in the absence of air resistance. This means that when it returns to its starting point, its speed will also be less than its initial velocity of 50 m/s. Therefore, the best choice is A - less than 50 m/s.

A Projectile Is Launched Vertically Upward at 50 M/s