Physics
Distance fallen from rest
The same relationship rearranged. Distance grows with the square of time, so each second covers more ground than the last.
The Formula
h = 0.5 x g x t squared
The same relationship rearranged. Distance grows with the square of time, so each second covers more ground than the last.
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| h | Distance | m | Metres fallen. |
| g | Gravity | m/s2 | Acceleration due to gravity, about 9.81. |
| t | Time | s | Seconds spent falling. |
What Each Symbol Means
hm
Distance
Metres fallen.
gm/s2
Gravity
Acceleration due to gravity, about 9.81.
ts
Time
Seconds spent falling.
See It Worked With Real Numbers
A formula on its own does not tell you which number goes where. The how to calculate free fall page applies this equation to a concrete case, shows every intermediate step, and names the mistakes that produce a wrong answer even when the algebra is right.
Where This Formula Appears
This equation is the working core of How To Calculate Free Fall, filed under Science. Every number the guide produces comes from substituting into this one line.