. What happens to the horizontal velocity of an object as it travels through the air?

When an object travels through the air, its horizontal velocity is influenced by a few key factors, primarily drag and initial velocity:

1. Initial Velocity: When an object is projected horizontally, it begins with a certain horizontal velocity determined by the force applied at the moment of launch.

2. Air Resistance (Drag): As the object moves through the air, it encounters air resistance, which is a force that opposes its motion. The magnitude of drag depends on several factors, including the object's speed, shape, surface area, and the density of the air.

3. Impact of Drag on Horizontal Velocity:

   • Initially, the horizontal velocity remains relatively constant, provided that the drag force is small compared to the object's momentum. However, as the object travels further, drag reduces its horizontal velocity gradually.
   • Eventually, the horizontal velocity decreases until it reaches a terminal velocity, where the drag force equals the force propelling the object forward (if applicable).

4. Events Over Time: If the object is in free fall with an initial horizontal component (like a thrown ball), its horizontal velocity will decrease steadily over time until significant drag forces significantly affect the motion.

In summary, the horizontal velocity of an object in the air typically decreases over time due to air resistance, especially if no additional forces are acting to maintain or increase that velocity.