Free Fall Calculator
Enter fall time and gravity to compute the distance fallen and final velocity under gravity (no air resistance).
Input Data
Results
At a glance:Free fall is motion under gravity alone (air resistance neglected). For an object released from rest, distance fallen d = ½·g·t² and final speed v = g·t, where g is gravitational acceleration (≈9.81 m/s² on Earth). These follow from constant acceleration kinematics (a = g, v₀ = 0, x₀ = 0). With initial velocity v₀: v = v₀ + g·t, d = v₀·t + ½·g·t². In reality air resistance limits speed to a terminal velocity; this tool assumes ideal free fall. On the Moon g≈1.62, so objects fall much slower.
Formula
d = ½·g·t²
v = g·t
General: v = v₀ + g·t, d = v₀·t + ½·g·t²
$$v = g\,t,\quad d = \tfrac{1}{2} g\,t^2$$How to Use
- Enter the fall time t (s).
- Enter the gravitational acceleration g (m/s²).
- The calculator returns distance d and final velocity v.
Case Studies
Dropped ball
t = 2 s, g = 9.81 m/s².
v = 9.81×2 = 19.6 m/s.
d = ½×9.81×4 = 19.6 m.
FAQ
Does mass affect free fall?
In vacuum, no — all objects accelerate at g regardless of mass (Galileo). Air resistance makes lighter/larger objects fall slower in real life, reaching terminal velocity.
Why assume no air resistance?
It isolates the kinematics of constant acceleration, the foundation taught first. For accuracy at high speed or low density, add drag (terminal velocity).
Related Tools
References
Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.