When to use this calculator
Find horizontal travel before an ideal horizontally launched object reaches the ground. Assumes level ground below the launch point, no drag and zero initial vertical velocity.
Explore the motion & kinematics calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Horizontal Projectile Time Calculator: Find time to fall for a projectile launched horizontally from a height.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Horizontal Projectile Range: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Horizontal launch speed (m/s) | 10 |
| Drop height (m) | 20 |
| Gravity (m/s²) | 10 |
| Result | 20 m |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Range = horizontal speed × √(2 × height/gravity).
- The result is 20 m, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Assumes level ground below the launch point, no drag and zero initial vertical velocity.
Choose a reference direction before using signed velocities. Constant-acceleration models do not capture variable braking or drag. Projectile tools explicitly state launch and landing assumptions.
Frequently asked questions
Are displacement and distance interchangeable?
No. Displacement is the signed or directed change in position; distance counts the length of the path travelled.
When is the horizontal projectile range calculator useful?
Find horizontal travel before an ideal horizontally launched object reaches the ground. Assumes level ground below the launch point, no drag and zero initial vertical velocity.
How do I use the horizontal projectile range calculator?
Enter horizontal launch speed (m/s), drop height (m), gravity (m/s²). The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Range = horizontal speed × √(2 × height/gravity).
What should I check before using the result?
Assumes level ground below the launch point, no drag and zero initial vertical velocity.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
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