TExES Physical Education EC-12 Practice Exam

What defines a projection with a maximum distance at a 45-degree angle?

1. A. Projecting objects for accuracy when speed may enhance the performance.

2. B. Projecting for vertical distance with horizontal component.

3. C. Projecting horizontally where takeoff and landing heights are uneven.

4. D. Projection horizontally where takeoff and landing heights are equal.

The correct answer is: D. Projection horizontally where takeoff and landing heights are equal.

A projection at a maximum distance when launched at a 45-degree angle is characterized by the principle of optimizing both vertical and horizontal components of motion. This angle ensures that the projectile covers the greatest horizontal range when takeoff and landing heights are equal. When both the launching point and the landing point are at the same height, the projectile benefits from the balanced distribution of its initial velocity into upward and forward motion, allowing it to travel further. While other scenarios may involve different angles or considerations of vertical distance, they do not achieve the maximum range under the same height conditions. This makes the understanding of the 45-degree angle critical in scenarios where equal heights of takeoff and landing are present, maximizing horizontal distance.