What is the equation for calculating terminal velocity?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of terminal velocity and how to calculate it in the context of falling bodies. The formula v = \frac {g} {\beta}( e^{- \beta t} - 1) is mentioned as a way to represent velocity as a function of time, with the understanding that the value of beta is determined experimentally. The conversation also touches on the equation CpAv^2 = D, which relates to the drag force on a falling object, and how to find the terminal velocity by setting a equal to zero.
  • #1
ElDavidas
80
0
hi again,

I'm pretty sure I understand the concept of terminal velocity in that there is an upper limit to the speed of a falling body. How do you calculate the terminal velocity of an equation?

For example:

[tex] v = \frac {g} {\beta}( e^{- \beta t} - 1) [/tex]

v represents velocity
 
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  • #2
Don't know what you mean by "terminal velocity of an equation", but if that expression gives the speed as a function of time then just let [tex]t \rightarrow \infty[/tex].
 
  • #3
What does all that represent?
 
  • #4
Hi ElDavidas

I think that understand your question. I just know that this concept is relative, it means, in the context of falling bodies the formulae could be deduced theoretically, but however, the constants like your beta is determined only experimentally. Do you like another answer or is sufficient?
 
  • #5
I think you need the terminal velocity of a free falling object. For any fluids, here air we have an equation that CpAv^2 = D where D is the drag force applied by the fluid on the object in a direction opposite to the relative motion of the first object. Now mg - D = ma. So a becomes zero when?(better now you do the rest) So that is how you get it.
 

FAQ: What is the equation for calculating terminal velocity?

What is terminal velocity?

Terminal velocity is the maximum speed that an object can reach when falling through a fluid, such as air or water. It is the point at which the drag force of the fluid is equal to the gravitational force acting on the object, causing it to reach a constant velocity.

How is terminal velocity calculated?

Terminal velocity can be calculated using the equation Vt = √(2mg/ρACd), where Vt is the terminal velocity, m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, ρ is the density of the fluid, A is the projected area of the object, and Cd is the drag coefficient.

What factors affect terminal velocity?

The factors that affect terminal velocity include the mass and shape of the object, the density and viscosity of the fluid, and the presence of external forces such as wind or air resistance.

Why is terminal velocity important?

Terminal velocity is important in understanding the motion of objects falling through a fluid, such as the human body in a skydiving or base jumping scenario. It also has practical applications in industries such as aviation and aerospace, where understanding terminal velocity is crucial for designing safe aircraft and spacecraft.

Can terminal velocity be exceeded?

In a fluid, terminal velocity is the maximum speed that an object can reach. However, in a vacuum, an object will continue to accelerate due to the absence of drag force. Therefore, in a vacuum, terminal velocity can be exceeded.

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