MadSci Network: Physics
Query:

Re: What is the terminal velocity of different falling objects?

Date: Tue Dec 29 15:16:40 1998
Posted By: Tye Morancy, Grad student/Teaching Asst. Physics and Radiology, UMASS Lowell/Radiation Tech. Harvard Univ. EH&S
Area of science: Physics
ID: 914036540.Ph
Message:

  Hello Gottfried,

    That's a good follow-up question.  If the skydiver's descent was 120 
mph, then yes the bullet would fall slower.  The terminal velocity of an 
object in free fall depends on the properties of aerodynamics, weight, and 
density.  An object with low weight, low density, and poor aerodynamics 
will fall slower than an object which is more dense, more aerodynamic, and 
less massive.
    In this case, the bullet as compared to a skydiver is much lighter, 
more aerodynamic (though the skydiver can change his body position to 
become more aerodynamic...), and more dense.  You must also remember that 
the faster something falls, the more resistive force is exerted on it (by 
the air).  
    I located an excellent reference for you to answer your questions 
about the factors involved, as well as a table of terminal velocities for 
various objects like the ones you listed.  Just click on the following 
link to go there :

      Terminal Velocity Reference : 

  I hope that this helped you out...happy holidays!

Tye Morancy



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