Enter the mass (kg) and the terminal velocity (m/s) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Terminal Energy. 

Terminal Energy Formula

TE = 1/2*m*tv^2

Variables:

  • TE is the Terminal Energy (J)
  • m is the mass (kg)
  • tv is the terminal velocity (m/s)

To calculate Terminal Energy, multiply the mass by the terminal velocity squared, then divide the result by 2.

How to Calculate Terminal Energy?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Terminal Energy.

  1. First, determine the mass (kg). 
  2. Next, determine the terminal velocity (m/s). 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = TE = 1/2*m*tv^2.
  4. Finally, calculate the Terminal Energy.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

mass (kg) = 60

terminal velocity (m/s) = 40

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Terminal Velocity?

Terminal velocity is the maximum velocity attainable by an object as it falls through a fluid (air is the most common example). It occurs when the sum of the drag force (Fd) and the buoyancy equals the downward force of gravity (FG) acting on the object. At this point, the object ceases to accelerate and continues to fall at a constant speed.

How does mass affect Terminal Energy?

The mass of an object directly affects its terminal energy. According to the formula TE = 1/2*m*tv^2, the terminal energy is proportional to the mass of the object. This means that as the mass increases, the terminal energy increases as well, assuming the terminal velocity remains constant.

Can Terminal Velocity change for an object?

Yes, the terminal velocity of an object can change based on several factors, including its shape, size, and the density of the fluid it is falling through. Modifications to the object’s shape or surface can alter its aerodynamic properties, thus affecting its terminal velocity. Additionally, changes in the fluid’s density, such as moving from air to water, can significantly impact the terminal velocity.