Multiple choice

If a stone is thrown parallel to the surface of the earth, its trajectory will be ______.

  1. a parabola

  2. a curve

  3. parallel to the earth

  4. perpendicular to the earth
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

When a stone is thrown horizontally (parallel to Earth's surface), it follows projectile motion under gravity. The horizontal component of velocity remains constant (ignoring air resistance), while the vertical component follows accelerated motion due to gravity. The combination of these two perpendicular motions produces a parabolic trajectory.

Keep practicing — related questions