Projectile Motion Calculator
Calculate range, max height, and time of flight for a projectile.
Input Parameters
Results
What is Projectile Motion?
Projectile Motion describes the path of an object launched into the air that is subject only to gravity. The path is typically a parabola.
To understand the forces acting on the projectile, check out our Forces & Newton's Laws Calculator.
To calculate velocity and acceleration in one dimension, use our Kinematics Motion Calculator.
To analyze the energy changes during flight, explore our Work–Energy–Power Calculator.
Formulas Used
- Vx = v₀ * cos(θ)
- Vy = v₀ * sin(θ)
- Time = (2 * Vy) / g (if h₀=0)
- Height = h₀ + (Vy²) / (2g)
- Range = Vx * Time
Key Concepts
- • Parabolic Trajectory: Objects follow a curved parabolic path under gravity.
- • Independence of Motion: Horizontal and vertical motions are independent.
- • Symmetry: Time up equals time down for same height launch and landing.
How to Use
Enter Velocity
Input initial speed in m/s.
Enter Angle
Input launch angle in degrees.
Calculate
Get range, height, and time.
Benefits of Using This Calculator
- • Quick Results: Instant calculations for complex trajectory problems.
- • Multiple Parameters: Get range, max height, time, and velocity components.
- • Educational Tool: Perfect for physics students and educators.
Factors Affecting Range
- • Launch Angle: 45° gives max range in vacuum.
- • Initial Speed: Range increases with the square of speed.
- • Gravity: Higher gravity reduces range and height.
- • Initial Height: Higher starting position increases range.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is projectile motion?
A: Projectile motion is a form of motion experienced by an object or particle that is projected near the Earth's surface and moves along a curved path under the action of gravity only.
Q: What assumptions are made?
A: This calculator assumes negligible air resistance and a constant acceleration due to gravity (g = 9.81 m/s²) acting downwards.
Q: What is the maximum range angle?
A: In ideal conditions (no air resistance), the maximum range is achieved at a launch angle of 45 degrees.