Final answer:
The objects thrown or launched into the air, like footballs or rockets, are called projectiles and they engage in projectile motion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Objects that are thrown or launched into the air, such as a football or rocket, are known as projectiles. The motion they undergo is called projectile motion, which is the motion of an object projected into the air, subject only to the acceleration due to gravity. This concept is significant because it is a form of two-dimensional motion where the only force acting upon the projectile is gravity, assuming air resistance is negligible. Examples of forces exerted on moving objects include the force of the foot on a soccer ball being kicked, the water’s resistance against a dolphin jumping, and air resistance (drag) on a parachutist drifting to Earth.
In the context of the given multiple-choice question, the correct answer is: D) Projectiles.