Free Fall Calculator
Calculate free fall distance, velocity, and time using d = ½gt² and v = gt. Enter height or time with g = 9.8 m/s².
Enter a value to calculate free fall parameters.
Free Fall Formulas
Velocity: v = g × t
Time from height: t = √(2d / g)
Where:
- d = distance fallen (m)
- v = final velocity (m/s)
- t = time of fall (s)
- g = acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²)
Example
Solution:
d = ½ × 9.8 × 3² = ½ × 9.8 × 9 = 44.1 m
v = 9.8 × 3 = 29.4 m/s
Understanding Free Fall
Free fall is the motion of an object where gravity is the only force acting upon it. In a vacuum, all objects fall at the same rate regardless of mass. Near Earth's surface, objects accelerate downward at 9.8 m/s².
FAQ
Does mass affect free fall?
In a vacuum, no. All objects experience the same gravitational acceleration regardless of mass. In air, heavier and denser objects may fall faster due to reduced air resistance relative to their weight.
What is terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity is the maximum speed reached when air resistance equals gravitational force. This calculator ignores air resistance and assumes true free fall.
What is g on other planets?
The Moon: 1.62 m/s², Mars: 3.72 m/s², Jupiter: 24.79 m/s². You can change the gravity value in this calculator to compute free fall on other bodies.
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Last updated: 2026-08-08