AVIATION & AERONAUTIC CALCULATOR
Terminal Velocity
A precise tool.
What is the Terminal Velocity & How does it work?
Terminal velocity is the constant speed that a freely falling object eventually reaches when the drag force exerted on it by the air equals the gravitational force pulling it down.
v_t = sqrt{frac{2mg}{rho A C_d}}
v_t = terminal velocity, m = mass of the object, g = acceleration due to gravity, rho = air density, A = cross-sectional area, C_d = drag coefficient
The terminal velocity depends on the object’s mass, its shape (which affects the drag coefficient), and the properties of the fluid it is falling through.
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity is the maximum constant speed an object reaches when the force of gravity equals the drag force.
How do I calculate terminal velocity?
Use the formula v_t = sqrt(2mg / (ΟAC_d)), where m is mass, g is gravity, Ο is air density, A is cross-sectional area, and C_d is drag coefficient.
What factors affect terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity depends on the object’s mass, shape (drag coefficient), and the properties of the fluid it’s falling through.
Can I use this calculator for objects in liquids other than air?
Yes, you can adjust the formula to use the density of the liquid instead of air density.
What is the significance of the drag coefficient?
The drag coefficient represents how aerodynamic or streamlined the object is; a lower C_d means less air resistance.
How does terminal velocity change with altitude?
Terminal velocity can increase with altitude due to decreasing air density, allowing objects to reach higher speeds.
Is terminal velocity the same for all objects?
No, it varies based on each object’s mass, shape, and the fluid they’re falling through.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.