AVIATION & AERONAUTIC CALCULATOR
Belly To Earth Speed
A precise tool.
What is the Belly To Earth Speed & How does it work?
The belly-to-earth terminal velocity is the maximum speed an object achieves when falling through the air, assuming no additional forces like drag are significantly altered. For a typical human body, this speed is approximately 120 mph or 190 km/h.
v = sqrt{frac{2mg}{rho A C_d}}
v = terminal velocity, m = mass of the object, g = acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²), rho = air density, A = reference area, C_d = drag coefficient
This formula accounts for the balance between gravitational force and aerodynamic drag. The terminal velocity is reached when these forces are equal.
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Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is belly-to-earth terminal velocity?
Belly-to-earth terminal velocity is the maximum speed an object reaches when falling through the air, typically around 120 mph or 190 km/h for a human body.
How do I calculate my terminal velocity?
Use the formula v = sqrt(2mg / (rho * A * C_d)), where m is your mass, g is acceleration due to gravity, rho is air density, A is reference area, and C_d is drag coefficient.
What factors affect terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity is affected by mass, air density, reference area, and drag coefficient. Greater mass or lower drag coefficient increases terminal velocity.
Is terminal velocity the same for everyone?
No, terminal velocity can vary based on factors like body shape, clothing, and orientation in the air.
How does altitude affect terminal velocity?
At higher altitudes, where air density is lower, terminal velocity increases because there’s less air resistance to slow the falling object.
Can I use this calculator for objects other than humans?
Yes, you can input different values for mass, reference area, and drag coefficient to calculate the terminal velocity of various objects.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.