Can I model upward throws?
Enter the upward speed as the initial velocity—time to impact will include the ascent and descent phases.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Free-Fall Calculator Guide
Use this companion guide beside the interactive calculator to make sure you understand the “why” behind every click. Each section includes the classroom explanation, student-friendly language, and quick practice prompts.
Before you start
Collect the data points listed below and double-check their units. Keeping an organized “givens” list is one of the fastest ways to reduce math errors and impress exam graders.
- free fall
- gravity
- kinematics
Detailed procedure
Step 1
Enter the drop height, optional initial velocity, and gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s² by default).
Step 2
Hit calculate to get time to impact and terminal speed in m/s and mph.
Teaching & troubleshooting tips
Does it include air resistance?
No. For more accurate predictions of real-world drops, incorporate drag or use a CFD/ballistics tool.