What factors affect terminal velocity?

Several factors influence terminal velocity: Mass of the object, drag coefficient, cross-sectional area, fluid density, and gravitational acceleration.

What's the terminal velocity of a human?

For a human skydiver in a belly-to-earth position, typical terminal velocity is ~53 m/s (190 km/h or 118 mph). In a head-down position it can reach up to 90 m/s (320 km/h or 200 mph), and with a wingsuit ~40 m/s (140 km/h or 90 mph).

Terminal Velocity Calculator

Calculate the maximum velocity an object reaches when falling through a fluid (like air or water)

Mass of the object (kg):

Drag coefficient:

Cross-sectional area (m²):

Fluid density (kg/m³):

Gravity (m/s²):

Frequently Asked Questions

Terminal velocity is the maximum velocity attainable by an object as it falls through a fluid (like air or water). It occurs when the sum of the drag force (F₈) and buoyancy equals the downward force of gravity (F₉) acting on the object.

Several factors influence terminal velocity:

Mass of the object – heavier objects have higher terminal velocities
Drag coefficient – depends on the object’s shape and surface roughness
Cross-sectional area – larger areas create more drag
Fluid density – denser fluids create more resistance
Gravitational acceleration – varies slightly by location

For a human skydiver in a belly-to-earth (freeflying) position:

Typical terminal velocity: ~53 m/s (190 km/h or 118 mph)
In a head-down position: up to 90 m/s (320 km/h or 200 mph)
With a wingsuit: ~40 m/s (140 km/h or 90 mph)

These values assume standard atmospheric conditions at sea level.

Terminal Velocity Calculator

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