To calculate the maximum value of x in the given equation, one must analyze how x changes as the angle α varies. The equation for x includes constants a, V, and g, with g representing gravitational field strength. A common approach to find the maximum of a function involves taking the derivative of the function with respect to α, setting it to zero, and solving for α. This will identify critical points, which can then be evaluated to determine the maximum value of x. Understanding the behavior of the function through calculus is essential for solving this problem effectively.