Step-by-step walkthrough

Projectile Motion 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.

  • projectile
  • ballistics
  • trajectory

Detailed procedure

  1. Step 1

    Enter the launch speed (m/s), launch angle (degrees), and optional initial height.

  2. Step 2

    Adjust gravity if you need a different planetary body.

  3. Step 3

    Read the time of flight, horizontal range, peak height, and x-distance at the apex.

Teaching & troubleshooting tips

Does it include drag or spin?

No—this is the textbook vacuum solution. For drag or Magnus effects, use a dedicated trajectory simulator.

Can I use degrees greater than 90?

Angles must be between 0° and 90°. Negative angles represent downward launches; convert as needed.

Next steps