Terminal Velocity Calculator
Calculate the terminal velocity of falling objects considering air resistance, drag coefficient, and cross-sectional area.
Terminal Velocity Parameters
Quick Presets:
Sphere: 0.47, Cube: 1.05, Streamlined: 0.04
Terminal Velocity
40.02 m/s
144.1 km/h | 89.5 mph
Terminal Velocity Formula:
Where:
- m = mass of object
- g = gravitational acceleration
- ρ (rho) = air density
- Cd = drag coefficient
- A = cross-sectional area
Reynolds Number
2.27e+6
Turbulent flow regime
Understanding Terminal Velocity
What is Terminal Velocity?
Terminal velocity is the maximum velocity an object can reach when falling through a fluid (like air). It occurs when the drag force equals the gravitational force, resulting in zero acceleration.
Factors Affecting Terminal Velocity
Heavier objects have higher terminal velocities. Larger cross-sectional areas and higher drag coefficients reduce terminal velocity. Lower air density (higher altitude) increases terminal velocity.
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Editorial Note
MyCalcBuddy Editorial Team
This page is maintained as an educational calculator reference.
Formula Source: University Physics
by Young & Freedman