Any object that moves through the air (or space) under the influence of gravity is...?
Any object that moves through the air or space under the influence of gravity is considered a projectile. This includes a wide range of objects, such as balls thrown in the air, bullets fired from a gun, rockets launched into space, or even a stone tossed into a pond.
To determine what objects fall under this category, we need to understand the concept of a projectile. A projectile is an object that is propelled into the air but is only acted upon by the force of gravity after it leaves its source. Once in motion, the only force acting on the projectile is gravity, which causes it to follow a curved trajectory known as a projectile path.
To identify if an object can be considered a projectile, we can analyze if it meets the following criteria:
1. It moves through the air or space: The object must have a trajectory that takes it through the atmosphere or vacuum of space.
2. It is under the influence of gravity: Gravity acts as the driving force on the object once it leaves its source of propulsion.
3. It follows a curved path: Due to the influence of gravity, the object's trajectory is a curved path rather than a straight line.
By considering these factors, we can determine whether an object can be classified as a projectile.