Terminal Velocity May 2026

is the highest speed a falling object can reach as it moves through a fluid, such as air or water. It occurs when the downward force of gravity is perfectly balanced by the upward resistance of the fluid, known as drag . At this precise point, the object stops accelerating and continues to fall at a steady, constant speed. The Physics of Falling

: As the object gets faster, the drag force grows until it exactly matches the weight of the object. Steady State : Once Terminal Velocity

You can calculate terminal velocity using the following equation provided by Science Buddies : is the highest speed a falling object can

: Heavier objects require more drag to balance their weight, meaning they must fall faster to reach their terminal speed. The Physics of Falling : As the object

: Objects with a large surface area (like an open parachute) experience more drag and reach a much lower terminal velocity.

, the net force is zero, and according to Newton’s Laws, the object maintains a constant Terminal Velocity . The Mathematical Formula