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Velocity Due to Gravity Calculator

Velocity Formula:

\[ v = \sqrt{2 \times g \times h} \]

meters
m/s²

1. What is a Velocity Due to Gravity Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the velocity of an object in free fall based on height and gravitational acceleration.

Purpose: It helps physics students, engineers, and scientists calculate the impact velocity of falling objects.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ v = \sqrt{2 \times g \times h} \]

Where:

  • \( v \) — Velocity (meters per second, m/s)
  • \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s² on Earth)
  • \( h \) — Height (meters, m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the final velocity of an object in free fall from a certain height, neglecting air resistance.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

Details: Understanding impact velocity is crucial for safety calculations, engineering designs, and physics experiments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the height in meters and gravitational acceleration (default 9.81 m/s² for Earth). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this account for air resistance?
A: No, this is the theoretical maximum velocity in a vacuum. Actual velocities will be lower due to air resistance.

Q2: What's the gravitational acceleration on other planets?
A: It varies (e.g., 3.71 m/s² on Mars, 24.79 m/s² on Jupiter). Change the gravity value accordingly.

Q3: Can I use this for horizontal motion?
A: No, this only applies to vertical free fall from rest.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Perfectly accurate in a vacuum, but becomes less accurate with significant air resistance.

Q5: What if the object isn't dropped from rest?
A: This calculator assumes initial velocity is zero. For non-zero initial velocity, use \( v = \sqrt{v_0^2 + 2gh} \).

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