ATRONOMY – PACE MIION & PACECRAFT (44) CALCULATOR
Parachute Terminal Velocity
A precise tool.
What is the Parachute Terminal Velocity & How does it work?
When an object falls through an atmosphere, it accelerates until the upward drag force equals the downward weight. At this point the net force is zero and the object stops accelerating β this constant speed is called the terminal velocity. A parachute dramatically increases the drag force by presenting a large surface area to the airflow. The drag force depends on the air density, the parachuteβs projected area, and a dimensionless drag coefficient that captures the shape and porosity of the canopy. By balancing weight (mΒ·g) with drag (Β½Β·ΟΒ·AΒ·C_dΒ·VΒ²) and solving for the speed V, the terminal velocity of a parachuted payload can be expressed as a simple squareβroot formula.
V_t = sqrt{frac{2 m g}{rho A C_d}}
V_t = terminal velocity (m/s)
m = mass of the payload (kg)
g = gravitational acceleration (m/sΒ²)
rho = air density (kg/mΒ³)
A = parachute area (mΒ²)
C_d = drag coefficient (dimensionless)
m = mass of the payload (kg)
g = gravitational acceleration (m/sΒ²)
rho = air density (kg/mΒ³)
A = parachute area (mΒ²)
C_d = drag coefficient (dimensionless)
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity is the constant speed reached by an object when the force of gravity is balanced by the drag force.
How does a parachute affect terminal velocity?
A parachute increases terminal velocity by increasing the drag force due to its large surface area and shape.
What factors determine terminal velocity with a parachute?
Terminal velocity is determined by air density, the parachute’s projected area, and the drag coefficient.
Can I use this calculator for any object?
Yes, you can use this calculator for any object that uses a parachute to increase its terminal velocity.
How accurate is this calculator?
The accuracy depends on the precision of the input values for air density, parachute area, and drag coefficient.
What units should I use for the inputs?
Use standard units: meters per second squared (m/sΒ²) for acceleration due to gravity, kilograms (kg) for mass, square meters (mΒ²) for area, and appropriate values for the drag coefficient.
Can this calculator be used in space?
No, this calculator is designed for use in atmospheres where air resistance affects an object’s motion. It cannot be used in the vacuum of space.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.