Projectile Motion
Simulation
Measurements
Key Formulas & Variables
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| v0 | Initial velocity — the speed at the moment of launch (in m/s) |
| θ | Launch angle measured from the horizontal (in degrees) |
| t | Time elapsed since launch (in seconds, s) |
| g | Acceleration due to gravity (on Earth ≈ 9.8 m/s², always pulls downward) |
| x | Horizontal position (how far along the ground, in metres) |
| y | Vertical position (height above the ground, in metres) |
| R | Range = v0² sin(2θ) / g — total horizontal distance travelled |
| H | Maximum height = v0² sin²(θ) / 2g |
Horizontal and vertical motions are independent. Horizontal velocity stays constant (no air resistance), while vertical velocity changes due to gravity. Maximum range occurs at 45°.
About This Experiment
Investigate projectile motion by launching objects at different angles and velocities. This simulation demonstrates how horizontal and vertical components of motion are independent, with only the vertical component affected by gravity. Observe how changing the launch angle affects the range and flight time of the projectile.
The parabolic trajectory results from constant horizontal velocity combined with constant vertical acceleration due to gravity (g = 9.8 m/s²). Maximum range occurs at 45° in ideal conditions, while maximum height depends on both initial velocity and launch angle.