Question

A projectile leaves the ground at an angle of 60° to the horizontal. It's kinetic energy is E. Neglecting air resistance, what in terms of E is its kinetic energy at the highest point of the motion?

Answer 1

When a projectile is launched at an angle to the horizontal and neglecting air resistance, its kinetic energy at the highest point of motion can be determined by considering the conservation of mechanical energy.

At the highest point of its trajectory, the projectile reaches its maximum vertical height. At this point, all of its initial kinetic energy is converted into potential energy.

The kinetic energy (KE) at the highest point is equal to zero since the projectile momentarily comes to a stop before reversing its direction. Therefore, in terms of the initial kinetic energy E, the kinetic energy at the highest point is given by:

$\text{Kinetic energy at highest point}=0$

So, the kinetic energy at the highest point of motion in terms of the initial kinetic energy E is zero.