At the maximum height of a projectile, what is the vertical velocity?

Study for the NCEA Level 2 Mechanics Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

At the maximum height of a projectile, the vertical velocity is zero. This occurs because, as the projectile ascends, it slows down due to the force of gravity acting against its upward motion. When it reaches its peak, the upward speed reaches zero momentarily before the projectile begins to descend. At this point, the vertical component of the velocity is precisely equal to zero, indicating that the object is neither moving upward nor downward. After this peak, the projectile will start to accelerate downward, and its vertical velocity will gradually increase in the negative direction as it falls back towards the ground. Thus, the concept of vertical velocity being zero at the peak height is a fundamental principle of projectile motion.

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