The maximum speed due to gravity?

It is the point where the force of gravity and the force of air resistance (also known as drag) are equal. This means that there is no net force acting on the parachuter, and their speed remains constant. The value of terminal velocity varies depending on factors such as air density, surface area, and mass of the object. For a person in free fall, the typical terminal velocity is around 200-300 km/h. So, to answer your question, air resistance does create a barrier for the speedbuild in parachuting. In summary, when parachuting, a person experiences a constant acceleration due to gravity until reaching terminal velocity, where the force of gravity and air resistance are equal and there is no net force acting on the person.
  • #1
fawk3s
342
1
Say you go parachuting. And you jump, without opening the parachute...
You get a constant acceleration due to gravity, so your speed builds pretty high. And as long as you keep falling without any friction, your speed keeps building.
But let's now take air resistance into consideration. Does this build a barrier for the speedbuild?
I mean, would there be a situation where the force of gravity and the force of friction balance each other, where the net force of the 2 would become 0?
(Plus ofcourse, there is upthrust aswell.)

Im not exactly looking for any fancy equation, but I don't mind them. I am more interested in if this situation exists, can it be created by a parachuter and how much would be the speed barrier for an average mass, and an average bodyshape person.

Thanks in advance,
fawk3s
 
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  • #3
Yeah this velocity is called 'terminal velocity.'
 

1. What is the maximum speed due to gravity?

The maximum speed due to gravity is the terminal velocity, which is the highest speed an object can reach when falling through a fluid, such as air or water, due to the force of gravity.

2. How is the maximum speed due to gravity calculated?

The maximum speed due to gravity is calculated using the equation V = √[(2mg)/ρAC]. This equation takes into account the mass of the object (m), the acceleration due to gravity (g), the density of the fluid (ρ), and the drag coefficient (C) and cross-sectional area (A) of the object.

3. Does the maximum speed due to gravity differ for different objects?

Yes, the maximum speed due to gravity varies for different objects depending on their mass, shape, and surface area. Lighter objects with a larger surface area will have a lower terminal velocity, while heavier objects with a smaller surface area will have a higher terminal velocity.

4. Is the maximum speed due to gravity affected by altitude?

Yes, the maximum speed due to gravity is affected by altitude. As altitude increases, the air density decreases, resulting in a lower maximum speed due to gravity. This is why skydivers can reach higher speeds at lower altitudes compared to higher altitudes.

5. Can the maximum speed due to gravity be exceeded?

No, the maximum speed due to gravity cannot be exceeded. Once an object reaches its terminal velocity, the upward force of drag will equal the downward force of gravity, resulting in a net force of zero and a constant speed. However, with the right equipment and conditions, it is possible for humans to temporarily exceed the terminal velocity.

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