Terminal velocity for big objects

I'd guess In summary, the drag force on large objects moving through air is determined by the quadratic equation Fdrag = -bv^2, where 'b' is a characteristic dimension. At terminal velocity, the force of drag is equal to the gravitational force, represented by the equation Fdrag = mg. By setting these two equations equal to each other, we can solve for terminal velocity and express it in terms of the variables m, b, and appropriate constants.
  • #1
cleverfield
12
0

Homework Statement



The drag force on large objects such as cars, planes, and sky divers moving through air is more nearly Fdrag = -bv^2.

For this quadratic dependence on v, determine a formula for the terminal velocity vTerm, of a vertically falling object.

Express your answer in terms of the variables m, b, and appropriate constants.

Homework Equations


Vterm = mg/b


The Attempt at a Solution



No idea how to begin this question.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
At terminal velocity, the force of drag is equal to the gravitational force.

[tex]F_{drag}=-bv^2=...[/tex]
 
  • #3
'b' is a characteristic dimension, such as the distance from front to rear bumper for an automobile attempting to fly.

You managed to leave out a square root in your equation.
 
  • #4
Phrak said:
'b' is a characteristic dimension, such as the distance from front to rear bumper for an automobile attempting to fly.

You managed to leave out a square root in your equation.

Which equation?
 
  • #5
cleverfield said:
Which equation?

From the one meta kindly put up
 

Related to Terminal velocity for big objects

What is terminal velocity for big objects?

Terminal velocity for big objects is the maximum speed that an object can reach when falling through a fluid, such as air or water. It is when the force of gravity is balanced by the drag force of the fluid, resulting in a constant downward speed.

How is terminal velocity for big objects calculated?

Terminal velocity for big objects can be calculated using the equation Vt = √(2mg/ρAC), 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 cross-sectional area of the object, and C is the drag coefficient.

Does terminal velocity for big objects change with altitude?

Yes, terminal velocity for big objects can change with altitude due to the difference in air density. As altitude increases, air density decreases, resulting in a lower drag force and a higher terminal velocity.

What factors can affect terminal velocity for big objects?

The factors that can affect terminal velocity for big objects include the mass and size of the object, the density and viscosity of the fluid, the shape and surface area of the object, and the altitude at which the object is falling.

Why is terminal velocity for big objects important to understand?

Understanding terminal velocity for big objects is important in various fields such as engineering, physics, and aerodynamics. It helps in predicting the speed at which objects will fall and the impact they will have upon landing, which is crucial for designing safe and efficient structures and equipment.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
7K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top