Terminal velocity is the constant speed that a freely falling object eventually reaches when the force of gravity pulling it downward is balanced by the drag force acting against it. As an object falls through a fluid, such as air or water, it accelerates until the drag force increases to a point where it equals the gravitational force. At this point, the net force acting on the object becomes zero, resulting in no further acceleration; thus, the object continues to fall at a steady speed known as terminal velocity. This phenomenon is influenced by factors such as the object's mass, shape, and the density of the fluid through which it is moving
What is terminal velocity?
Terminal velocity is the constant speed that a falling object reaches when the force of gravity is balanced by the drag force acting against it, resulting in no further acceleration.
What forces are involved in reaching terminal velocity?
The two main forces involved are the gravitational force pulling the object downward and the drag force opposing the motion, which increases with speed.
How does the shape of an object affect its terminal velocity?
The shape of an object influences its drag coefficient; streamlined shapes experience less drag and thus can achieve a higher terminal velocity compared to irregular shapes.
Does terminal velocity depend on the mass of the object?
Yes, terminal velocity is influenced by the mass of the object; heavier objects generally have a higher terminal velocity because they experience a greater gravitational force.
How does the density of the fluid affect terminal velocity?
The density of the fluid affects the drag force; in denser fluids, the drag force is greater, which can result in a lower terminal velocity for the same object compared to a less dense fluid.
Which forces are balanced when an object reaches terminal velocity?
a) Gravitational force and magnetic force
b) Gravitational force and drag force
c) Drag force and frictional force
d) Gravitational force and normal force
Answer: b) Gravitational force and drag force
How does the mass of an object affect its terminal velocity?
a) Heavier objects have a lower terminal velocity
b) Heavier objects have a higher terminal velocity
c) Mass does not affect terminal velocity
d) Terminal velocity is only affected by shape
Answer: b) Heavier objects have a higher terminal velocity
What happens to the drag force as an object accelerates through a fluid?
a) It decreases
b) It remains constant
c) It increases
d) It fluctuates randomly
Answer: c) It increases
Which of the following factors does NOT influence terminal velocity?
a) Shape of the object
b) Density of the fluid
c) Color of the object
d) Mass of the object
Answer: c) Color of the object
What is the typical terminal velocity of a skydiver in a belly-to-earth position?
a) 30 m/s
b) 53 m/s
c) 90 m/s
d) 120 m/s
Answer: b) 53 m/s