What This Calculator Does
This calculator models classic projectile motion — an object launched at an angle under gravity alone, with no air resistance — and calculates its total range, maximum height, and time in the air. It’s built for physics lab projectile experiments where you launch a ball or similar object and want to check your measured results against theory.
The Formula
The initial velocity is split into horizontal and vertical components: vx = v₀cos(θ) and vy = v₀sin(θ). Including an optional starting height h₀, the total flight time is t = (vy + √(vy² + 2gh₀)) / g, the range is R = vx · t, and the maximum height reached is h₀ + vy² / (2g), where g is gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²).
Note: This model assumes no air resistance and a flat, level landing surface at the target elevation implied by the starting height, for general educational purposes. Real experimental results (with a ball, dart, or projectile) will differ somewhat due to drag, spin, and wind.