Projectile Motion Calculator
Calculate the range, maximum height and flight time of a projectile from its launch speed, angle and launch height (no air resistance).
How to use
- 1Enter the launch speed, angle above horizontal and starting height.
- 2Read the flight time, range and peak height.
How it's calculated
vₓ = v cos θ, v_y = v sin θ. Time = (v_y + √(v_y² + 2g h₀)) ÷ g. Range = vₓ × time. Max height = h₀ + v_y² ÷ 2g.
Frequently asked questions
What angle gives the longest range?
45° when launching from ground level with no air resistance. From a height, the best angle is a bit lower.
Why is real range shorter?
Air resistance slows the projectile, especially fast or light objects. This calculator ignores drag.
What value of g is used?
Standard gravity, 9.80665 m/s².