Question

multiple choice question
when the motion of a rock that has been kicked off of a cliff is separated into a horizontal motion diagram and a vertical motion diagram, which statement is correct with respect to these motion diagrams?

both motion diagrams will show constant acceleration.

the vertical motion diagram will show constant acceleration while the horizontal motion diagram will show constant velocity.

the horizontal motion diagram will show constant acceleration while the vertical motion diagram will show constant velocity.

both motion diagrams will show constant velocity.

Explanation:

In projectile motion (like a rock kicked off a cliff), we ignore air resistance. Horizontally, no net force acts on the rock, so its horizontal velocity remains constant (no acceleration). Vertically, gravitational force acts constantly, creating a downward constant acceleration (acceleration due to gravity, $g$).

Answer:

The vertical motion diagram will show constant acceleration while the horizontal motion diagram will show constant velocity.