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The maximum range of projectile formula

Let us consider a projectile projected with initial velocity v0 making an angle θ0 with the horizontal as shown below in the figure.

Maximum range of projectile

We know that the horizontal range of a projectile is the distance traveled by the projectile during its time of flight. This horizontal range is given by the relation Horizontal Range=Horizontal velocity×time of flight So, the formula for the horizontal range is R=v02sin2θ0g(1)

The maximum range for projectile motion

A projectile of the same mass can be launched with the same initial velocity and different angles θ0.
 Consider the figure given below where a projectile is launched with three different angles 450,600,and300.

A projectile launched at different angles but the same initial velocity

From the above figure, we can clearly see that for different angles of projection horizontal range of a projectile is different. 
Let us now investigate the angle of projection for which range is maximum (note that initial velocity remains the same).

Learn more about velocity and speed

R=v0sin2θ0g In above relation, if we keep initial velocity same for various launch , then value of R varies with the value of sin2θ0.
Clearly, from trigonometry, we know that the maximum value of sinθ=1 and we know that sin900=1
So in this case, we have 
2θ0=900or,θ0=450
Thus the horizontal range of a projectile for a given initial velocity is maximum when it is projected at an angle of 450 with the horizontal.

The maximum range of projectile formula

To find the formula for a maximum range put θ0=450 in equation (1). So, from equation (1) we have
Rm=v20sin900g=v20g

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Question That can be asked from this topic

Question 1: Why do 45 degrees give a maximum range of a projectile?
Question 2: Prove 45 degrees maximum range for a projectile launched at an angle θ.
Question 3: Derive the formula for the range of projectile body launched at an angle θ.