Physics calculator

Projectile Motion Calculator

Estimate ideal projectile range, maximum height, and flight time from launch speed and angle.

FormulaRange = v^2 sin(2theta) / g; max height = v^2 sin^2(theta) / 2g

Formula

Ideal projectile motion

This ideal model excludes air resistance, launch height, spin, slope, and drag.

Range = v^2 sin(2theta) / g; max height = v^2 sin^2(theta) / 2g

30 m/s at 45 degrees gives the longest ideal range for level ground.

FAQ6 common questions for this calculator.

FAQs

Why is 45 degrees often best?+

For equal launch and landing height without air resistance, 45 degrees maximizes range.

Does this include air resistance?+

No. It is a simple classroom-style projectile estimate.

How does the Projectile Motion Calculator calculate the result?+

For the Projectile Motion Calculator, it uses the Ideal projectile motion: Range = v^2 sin(2theta) / g; max height = v^2 sin^2(theta) / 2g. 30 m/s at 45 degrees gives the longest ideal range for level ground.

What information do I need to use the Projectile Motion Calculator?+

For the Projectile Motion Calculator, enter launch speed and angle. Keep the units consistent with the calculator fields and compare your setup with the worked example on the page.

How accurate is the Projectile Motion Calculator?+

Projectile Motion Calculator is accurate for the quantities and units entered into Ideal projectile motion. Real systems may differ when friction, losses, directions, uncertainty, or non-ideal conditions are relevant.

What should I check before using the Projectile Motion Calculator result?+

For the Projectile Motion Calculator, check launch speed and angle, unit system, signs or directions, and whether the real situation matches the Ideal projectile motion and worked example. Idealized formulas may not include friction, losses, or uncertainty.

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Physics guide

How to use the Projectile Motion Calculator

Estimate ideal projectile range, maximum height, and flight time from launch speed and angle. The page also explains the ideal projectile motion and shows a practical example: 30 m/s at 45 degrees gives the longest ideal range for level ground.

  1. 1

    Enter your details

    Enter launch speed and angle, then complete any other fields shown in the calculator.

  2. 2

    Check the calculation

    Review the result alongside the ideal projectile motion: Range = v^2 sin(2theta) / g; max height = v^2 sin^2(theta) / 2g.

  3. 3

    Compare scenarios

    Change one or more inputs to see how they affect the projectile Motion Calculator result before you use the estimate.