Projectile Motion Experiment Calculator
Analyze projectile trajectories and design physics experiments
Calculation Mode
Calculate trajectory from initial conditions
Launch Parameters
Example Experiment
Rubber Ball Launch
Launcher: Resistance band and chair
Launch height: 1.2 meters
Time of flight: 1.5 seconds
Horizontal distance: 4.8 meters
Calculated Results
Initial velocity: 8.2 m/s
Launch angle: 35.6°
Maximum height: 2.4 meters
Perfect for classroom demonstration!
Key Equations
Velocity Components
Time of Flight
Range
Maximum Height
Experiment Materials
Launcher
- • Resistance band
- • Four-legged chair
- • Rubber ball
Measurement
- • Measuring tape
- • Stopwatch
- • Masking tape
- • Marker
Safety
- • Safety goggles
- • Clear pathway
- • Alert others nearby
Physics Tips
45° gives maximum range on level ground
Air resistance ignored for simplicity
Consistent launches improve accuracy
Video recording helps timing
Never aim at people or breakables
Understanding Projectile Motion
What is Projectile Motion?
Projectile motion occurs when an object is launched into the air and moves under the influence of gravity alone. The object follows a parabolic trajectory, with horizontal and vertical components of motion that are independent of each other.
Key Principles
- •Horizontal velocity remains constant (no air resistance)
- •Vertical acceleration is constant (-9.81 m/s²)
- •Motion is symmetric about the highest point
- •Independent horizontal and vertical components
Experiment Design
Forward Calculation
Use known launch parameters (velocity, angle, height) to predict the trajectory, range, time of flight, and maximum height.
Experiment Analysis
Measure time of flight, horizontal distance, and launch height to calculate the initial velocity and launch angle of your projectile.
Safety First: Always wear eye protection and ensure the launch area is clear of people and breakable objects.
Historical Context
Galileo Galilei was the first to accurately describe projectile motion in the early 1600s. He realized that projectile motion could be understood by analyzing horizontal and vertical components separately. His experiments with bronze balls led to the discovery that all projectiles follow parabolic paths when air resistance is negligible.
Real-World Applications
Sports & Recreation
- • Basketball shot trajectories
- • Baseball and golf ball paths
- • Javelin and shot put analysis
- • Archery and target shooting
Engineering & Science
- • Artillery and ballistics
- • Satellite orbital mechanics
- • Water fountain design
- • Package delivery drones