What is the terminal velocity of a ping pong ball?

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SUMMARY

The terminal velocity of a ping pong ball is approximately 9.5 m/s, which is achieved after falling about 12.5 meters. The discussion highlights the equation Vi+1 = Vi + (g - (c^2/m) * Vi^2) * t, which is used to calculate the velocity at intervals of 0.1 seconds until terminal velocity is reached. Participants in the forum provided insights into both theoretical and experimental approaches to understanding terminal velocity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the physics behind the motion of objects in free fall.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts such as gravity and drag force
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations and their applications
  • Knowledge of terminal velocity and its significance in fluid dynamics
  • Ability to perform calculations involving time, velocity, and acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and application of the terminal velocity equation
  • Explore the effects of different shapes and masses on terminal velocity
  • Learn about drag coefficients and their role in fluid dynamics
  • Conduct experiments to measure the terminal velocity of various objects
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the principles of motion and fluid dynamics, particularly in understanding how objects behave when falling through a fluid medium.

guitarhero123
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1. How long does it take a ping pong ball to reach terminal velocity?
2. What is the terminal velocity of a ping pong ball?
 
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Welcome to PF!

guitarhero123 said:
1. How long does it take a ping pong ball to reach terminal velocity?
2. What is the terminal velocity of a ping pong ball?

Hi guitarhero123! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Is this a theory or an experiment question?

Anyway, show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help. :smile:
 
The Terminal Velocity is about 9.5 m/s

98% of which is attained after falling 12.5 m. (Im not sure of the time it takes to get to this)

Did you want to know the values? Or the working?

I can't help you with the working, I simply found an answer from a quick google search.

http://adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/1984AmJPh..52..890B" is the site.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I wasn't sure how to start working out the problem.
I was given this equation Vi+1=Vi+(g-c^2/m*Vi^2)t
im not sure if that makes sense or not i think its supposed to read velocity initial plus one equals velocity initial plus the quantity gravity minus c squared over mass times initial velocity squared times the change in time
We were told to determine the velocity every .1 second until we reach terminal velocity.
I'm sorry if this doesn't make sense I'm really lost.
 

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