1. What is Terminal Velocity?

Terminal velocity is the maximum velocity attainable by an object as it falls through a fluid (like air). It occurs when the sum of the drag force and buoyancy equals the downward force of gravity, resulting in zero acceleration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the terminal velocity equation:

Where:

• \( v_t \) — Terminal velocity (m/s)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²)
• \( \rho \) — Density of the fluid (kg/m³)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
• \( C_d \) — Drag coefficient (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation balances gravitational force with drag force to find the velocity where these forces are equal.

3. Importance of Terminal Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating terminal velocity is crucial for parachute design, skydiving safety, particle sedimentation studies, and understanding meteorite entry into the atmosphere.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, fluid density in kg/m³ (1.225 kg/m³ for air at sea level), cross-sectional area in square meters, and drag coefficient (typically 0.5-1.3 for most objects).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical drag coefficient?
A: For common objects: ~1.0 for a person, ~0.5 for a sphere, ~1.3 for a flat plate perpendicular to flow.

Q2: How does altitude affect terminal velocity?
A: Higher altitudes have lower air density (ρ), which increases terminal velocity.

Q3: What's the terminal velocity of a human?
A: Typically 53-56 m/s (190-200 km/h) in belly-to-earth position, up to 90 m/s (320 km/h) in head-down position.

Q4: Why do objects reach terminal velocity?
A: As speed increases, drag force increases until it balances weight, preventing further acceleration.

Q5: How does shape affect terminal velocity?
A: Objects with larger cross-sectional area or higher drag coefficients reach lower terminal velocities.