MAXScanner engineering calculator
Terminal Velocity Calculator — Drag-Balanced Falling Speed
Calculate quadratic-drag terminal speed from mass, density, drag coefficient, area and displaced-fluid density effect.
Last updated: September 17, 2026
Results
Use positive mass, density, Cd, area and non-negative volume
Formula, example and assumptions
vt=sqrt(2g(m−ρV)/(ρCdA)); V optional via displaced volume.
A 1 kg object with Cd=0.8 and A=0.02 m² in air reaches roughly 31.9 m/s when buoyancy is negligible.
- Quadratic drag with constant Cd is assumed.
- Use displaced volume for buoyancy when fluid density is significant.
Frequently asked questions
What does this Terminal Velocity Calculator solve?
Calculate quadratic-drag terminal speed from mass, density, drag coefficient, area and displaced-fluid density effect.
Which units should I use?
Use the SI units shown beside each input. The results also expose practical converted outputs where useful.
Can I use this for final equipment selection?
Use it for transparent engineering estimates and cross-checks. Confirm fluid properties, manufacturer curves and applicable design codes before final selection.