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Velocity Equation with Gravity

Velocity Formula:

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

meters (m)
m/s²

1. What is the Velocity Equation with Gravity?

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

Purpose: It helps physics students and professionals calculate the speed of falling objects under Earth's gravity or other gravitational conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the velocity an object reaches after falling from rest under constant acceleration due to gravity.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

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

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. Real-world velocities will be lower due to air resistance.

Q2: What's the gravity value for other planets?
A: Moon: 1.62 m/s², Mars: 3.71 m/s², Jupiter: 24.79 m/s². Adjust the gravity value accordingly.

Q3: Can I use this for horizontal motion?
A: No, this formula specifically calculates vertical velocity due to gravitational acceleration.

Q4: What if the object isn't falling from rest?
A: This calculator assumes initial velocity is zero. For non-zero initial velocity, a different formula is needed.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Perfectly accurate in a vacuum, but in atmosphere, actual velocity will be less due to air resistance.

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