How this calculator works
Resolve launch velocity into horizontal and vertical components. Horizontal speed stays constant while gravity changes vertical velocity. Landing occurs at the first nonnegative root of the height equation. A range measurement can recover speed if angle, launch height and gravity are known. Drag, spin and wind are excluded; the trajectory table lets you compare video measurements with the ideal prediction.
Formula
x = vx t; y = h + vy t - g t^2/2; t_f = (vy + sqrt(vy^2+2gh))/g. At range R, v^2 = gR^2/[2 cos^2(alpha)(h+R tan(alpha))].
Worked example
At g = 10 m/s2, vx = 8 m/s, vy = 6 m/s and h = 0, flight time is 1.2 s, range is 9.6 m and peak height is 1.8 m.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I launch horizontally from a table?
Yes. Use a zero launch angle and enter the table height above the landing plane.
Why is the measured range shorter?
Air drag, launch-speed variation and angle errors can all reduce or change the observed range.
Can I inspect motion after landing?
No. This free-flight model stops when the projectile reaches the landing plane.