How is the maximum projectile height calculated?

The calculator uses the formula: h = (v² * sin²θ) / (2g), where v is launch speed, θ is launch angle, and g is gravity. It assumes no air resistance and a flat surface.

What units should I use for launch speed and gravity?

Launch speed should be in meters per second (m/s), and gravity in meters per second squared (m/s²). The angle is in degrees. The result is in meters.

Does the calculator account for air resistance?

No, it assumes ideal projectile motion without air resistance. For real-world scenarios with drag, the maximum height would be lower.

Physics

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Maximum Projectile Height Calculator.

Calculate ideal projectile maximum height without air resistance.

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Set your values

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02 / ANSWER

Launch speed

Launch angle

Gravity

Maximum height

10.197162m

Results update automatically as you type.

Use Cases

Physics homework and exam prep

Quickly verify answers for projectile motion problems, ensuring correct application of the kinematic formula.

Example: Check the max height for a ball launched at 20 m/s at 45°.

Engineering and design calculations

Estimate the peak altitude of a projectile for preliminary design of launchers or sports equipment.

Example: Determine the max height of a water rocket with a given launch speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the maximum projectile height calculated?: The calculator uses the formula: h = (v² * sin²θ) / (2g), where v is launch speed, θ is launch angle, and g is gravity. It assumes no air resistance and a flat surface.
What units should I use for launch speed and gravity?: Launch speed should be in meters per second (m/s), and gravity in meters per second squared (m/s²). The angle is in degrees. The result is in meters.
Does the calculator account for air resistance?: No, it assumes ideal projectile motion without air resistance. For real-world scenarios with drag, the maximum height would be lower.

Tips & Common Mistakes

Tips

Ensure the launch angle is in degrees, not radians, for correct results.
Use consistent units: m/s for speed and m/s² for gravity.
For maximum height, the optimal angle is 90° (straight up) if you ignore air resistance.
Remember that this calculator ignores air resistance, so real-world heights will be lower.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the angle in radians instead of degrees.
Forgetting to square the sine of the angle in the formula.
Mixing units, such as using km/h for speed without converting to m/s.

Last updated: August 13, 2026