Explore the Projectile Motion Simulator
Launch a projectile and watch its path, range and max height change live. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Projectile Motion Simulator with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Projectile Motion Simulator?
Launch a projectile and watch its path, range and max height change live. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Engineers use projectile motion to plan everything from sports throws to water fountains, fireworks and artillery. Athletes and coaches use it to find the best launch angle for javelin, basketball and golf.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
Horizontal and vertical motion are independent: gravity only acts vertically.
On level ground, a 45° launch angle gives the maximum range.
Range = v² sin(2θ) / g, and maximum height = (v sin θ)² / 2g.
Fire at 45° and note the range, then try 30° and 60°.
Add a launch height of 20 m and find the new best angle.
Switch gravity to the Moon and fire again.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Physics learners
Physics students in middle school, high school and first-year university, teachers who want a quick demonstration for the projector, and anyone revising for exams.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Projectile Motion Simulator on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Add a launch height of 20 m and find the new best angle. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
What launch angle gives the longest range?
On level ground with no air resistance, 45 degrees gives the maximum range. If you launch from a height, the best angle is a little lower than 45 degrees.
Does this simulator include air resistance?
No. It models ideal projectile motion under constant gravity, which is what most introductory physics courses use.
Can I change gravity to the Moon or Mars?
Yes. Use the gravity slider or the presets to compare Earth, the Moon, Mars and Jupiter.
Is the Projectile Motion Simulator free to use?
Yes. The Projectile Motion Simulator is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Physics group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Projectile Motion Simulator work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Projectile Motion Simulator takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 7 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
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Try the Projectile Motion Simulator now
Launch a projectile and watch its path, range and max height change live. Free to use.
Try it free