A Level mechanics

Projectile motion is two simpler motions happening at once.

This prototype helps learners connect the visual path of a projectile with the mechanics underneath: resolving velocity, using gravity, and finding range, height and time of flight.

The aim is to make mechanics feel less like formula selection and more like modelling motion from first principles.

Mechanics lab

Change the launch and predict the path

A projectile is modelled by constant horizontal velocity and constant vertical acceleration due to gravity. Adjust the speed, angle and gravity to see how the trajectory changes.

u_x

15.56 m/s

u_y

15.56 m/s

Range

49.39 m

Max height

12.35 m

Controls

Launch speed: 22 m/s

Launch angle: 45 degrees

Gravity: 9.8 m/s^2

Presets

Time of flight: 3.17 seconds

The vertical motion determines how long the projectile stays in the air. The horizontal component then determines how far it travels in that time.

What this shows

Horizontal and vertical motion can be modelled separately, then brought back together to describe the path.

Increasing launch speed increases both range and maximum height, but changing angle trades horizontal speed against vertical speed.

The model assumes no air resistance, so it is useful for learning the structure of the maths before discussing limitations.

Guided tasks

Keep speed fixed. Which angle gives the greatest range?

Compare two angles that add to 90 degrees. What do you notice?

Reduce gravity. Which quantities change, and which stay the same?

Joy in the process

The point is not just to finish. It is to notice, test and return.

These tools are invitations to explore. A good mistake, a surprising pattern or a question you cannot yet answer is part of the work, not a failure of it.

The challenge is deliberate: the site should support thinking, not remove the need for it.

Before changing a setting, pause and predict what you think will happen.

Change one thing at a time. What stayed the same, and what changed?

Try to create a surprising case, a broken case, or a beautiful pattern.

Ask what this connects to outside the page: maps, movement, nature, systems or decisions.

Reset, then try again with a new question in mind.

Future extensions

This can become a richer A Level mechanics lab.

Add target practice challenges where students choose speed and angle.

Add step-by-step SUVAT working for time of flight, height and range.

Add air resistance as a model limitation and extension.

Add exam-style prompts linking mechanics with parametric equations.