How Long to Reach 90% Terminal Velocity for a Ping Pong Ball?

In summary, the problem is to find the time it takes for a ping pong ball to reach 90% of its terminal velocity when released from rest. The relevant equations are Newton's second law and the drag force equation. The attempt at a solution involved setting up Newton's second law and using integration, but the integral could not be solved. Ultimately, the solution was found using the derivative of the inverse hyperbolic tangent function.
  • #1
pimpalicous
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Homework Statement


If a ping pong ball is released from rest, how long does it take for the ping pong ball to reach 90% of its terminal velocity?

m=2.2g, density(air)=a.29kg/m^3, Cw=.5, diameter=.38mm


Homework Equations


Fd=1/2*C[tex]_{w}[/tex]+[tex]\rho[/tex]*A*v^2

Newton's second law



The Attempt at a Solution



I set up Newtons second law for the going down case. I wanted to get v in terms of t.
I can't solve the integral though.

Fd-mg=m*dv/dt

[tex]\int \frac{dt}{m}[/tex]=[tex]\int \frac{2*dv}{C_{w}*\rho*A*v^2-mg}[/tex]

Please help.
 
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  • #2
Maybe you can use
[tex]\frac{\mathrm d}{\mathrm dx} \operatorname{arctanh}(x) = \frac{1}{1 - x^2}[/tex]
 
  • #3
yeah, i was able to get it to that form and it worked. Thanks.
 

Related to How Long to Reach 90% Terminal Velocity for a Ping Pong Ball?

1. What is drag force and how does it affect objects moving through a fluid?

Drag force is a type of resistance that occurs when an object moves through a fluid, such as air or water. It is caused by the interaction between the object and the molecules of the fluid. The magnitude of drag force depends on the shape and speed of the object, as well as the properties of the fluid. It acts in the opposite direction to the motion of the object and can slow it down or change its direction.

2. How is drag force calculated?

The calculation of drag force involves a complex integral that takes into account the shape and size of the object, the speed at which it is moving, and the properties of the fluid. This integral is known as the drag integral and is often difficult to solve analytically. It is usually calculated using numerical methods, such as finite element analysis, which involves dividing the object into smaller elements and solving the integral for each element.

3. What are some common applications of drag force?

Drag force is a crucial concept in the field of aerodynamics, as it affects the performance of airplanes, cars, and other vehicles. It is also important in the design of sports equipment, such as golf balls and racing bikes. In addition, drag force plays a role in weather patterns, ocean currents, and other natural phenomena.

4. What factors can affect the magnitude of drag force?

The magnitude of drag force can be affected by several factors, including the shape and size of the object, the speed and direction of its motion, and the properties of the fluid it is moving through. For example, a streamlined object will experience less drag force than a blunt object of the same size and speed. Additionally, increasing the speed of an object will also increase the magnitude of drag force.

5. How can drag force be reduced?

There are several ways to reduce drag force on an object. One method is to modify the shape of the object to make it more streamlined, which can reduce the amount of turbulence and friction between the object and the fluid. Another approach is to decrease the speed of the object, as drag force increases with speed. Additionally, adding a smooth and aerodynamic surface coating or using advanced materials can also help reduce drag force.

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