HTML Object height Property: Defining Embedded Object Height

The HTML <object> height property specifies the vertical height of the embedded content. This attribute is crucial for controlling the layout and presentation of objects such as videos, images, and other external resources within your web pages.

Purpose of the height Property

The primary purpose of the height property is to:

  • Define the vertical dimension of the space allocated for the embedded object.
  • Ensure consistent rendering and prevent layout issues by reserving the appropriate space.
  • Allow responsive design by adjusting the height to fit different screen sizes.

Syntax

The height attribute is used within the opening tag of the <object> element:

<object data="URL" type="MIME-type" height="pixels">
  <!-- Fallback content here -->
</object>

Attribute Values

Value Description
`pixels` Specifies the height of the object in pixels. This is the most common and recommended unit.
`%` Specifies the height as a percentage of the containing element’s height.

Examples

Let’s explore how to use the height property with different values and scenarios.

Example 1: Setting a Fixed Height in Pixels

This example demonstrates how to set a fixed height for an embedded object using pixels.

<object
  data="https://www.w3schools.com/html/pic_tranquility.jpg"
  type="image/jpeg"
  width="400"
  height="300"
>
  <p>Fallback content: Alternative text for users who can't view the object.</p>
</object>

In this example, the embedded image will be rendered with a height of 300 pixels.

Example 2: Using Percentage Height

This example sets the height of the embedded object as a percentage of its parent container. To properly render height, make sure that the parent also has a height defined.

<div style="height: 500px; width: 100%;">
  <object
    data="https://www.w3schools.com/html/pic_tranquility.jpg"
    type="image/jpeg"
    width="400"
    height="50%"
  >
    <p>Fallback content: Alternative text for users who can't view the object.</p>
  </object>
</div>

Here, the image will occupy 50% of the height of its parent div element, which is set to 500 pixels, resulting in the object having a height of 250 pixels.

Example 3: Embedding a Video with Height

This example demonstrates how to embed a video and specify its height.

<object
  data="https://www.w3schools.com/html/movie.mp4"
  type="video/mp4"
  width="400"
  height="300"
>
  <p>Fallback content: Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.</p>
</object>

In this case, the embedded video will have a height of 300 pixels.

Example 4: Using Height with Fallback Content

This example illustrates how to provide fallback content that includes alternative dimensions if the embedded object cannot be displayed.

<object
  data="nonexistent.swf"
  type="application/x-shockwave-flash"
  width="400"
  height="300"
>
  <img src="alternative.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Alternative" />
</object>

If the Flash object cannot be loaded, the alternative image with the specified height and width will be displayed.

Example 5: Responsive Design with Height

This example sets up a responsive design where the object’s height adjusts based on the screen size, using CSS and media queries.

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
  <head>
    <title>Responsive Object Height</title>
    <style>
      .container {
        width: 100%;
        height: 0;
        padding-bottom: 56.25%; /* 16:9 aspect ratio */
        position: relative;
      }

      .responsive-object {
        position: absolute;
        top: 0;
        left: 0;
        width: 100%;
        height: 100%;
      }
    </style>
  </head>
  <body>
    <div class="container">
      <object
        class="responsive-object"
        data="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VIDEO_ID"
        type="text/html"
      ></object>
    </div>
  </body>
</html>

In this setup, the height of the object will responsively adjust to maintain a 16:9 aspect ratio, adapting to different screen sizes.

Tips and Considerations

  • Aspect Ratio: When setting the height, consider the aspect ratio to prevent distortion of the embedded content.
  • Parent Container: When using percentage values, ensure the parent element has a defined height.
  • Fallback Content: Always provide fallback content for users whose browsers or devices cannot display the embedded object.
  • Accessibility: Provide alternative text or descriptions for embedded objects to improve accessibility for users with disabilities.
  • CSS Overrides: Avoid using CSS to set the height of the <object> element if possible, as this can sometimes lead to unexpected behavior. Instead, use the HTML attribute directly.
  • Testing: Test your embedded objects on various devices and browsers to ensure consistent rendering and responsiveness.

Conclusion

The HTML <object> height property is essential for controlling the vertical size of embedded content in your web pages. By using this attribute effectively, you can ensure consistent rendering, maintain proper layout, and create responsive designs that adapt to different screen sizes. Remember to always provide fallback content and consider accessibility to ensure a better user experience.