📚 Topic Summary
Terminal velocity is the constant speed that a freely falling object eventually reaches when the force of air resistance equals the force of gravity. At this point, the net force on the object is zero, and acceleration stops. Understanding terminal velocity involves considering factors like the object's mass, shape, and the density of the fluid (usually air) it's falling through.
When an object starts falling, gravity accelerates it downwards. As the object gains speed, the air resistance acting on it increases. Eventually, the upward force of air resistance becomes equal in magnitude to the downward force of gravity. This balance of forces results in zero net force and zero acceleration; the object then falls at a constant velocity - its terminal velocity.
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Terminal Velocity |
A. The force exerted by a fluid that opposes the motion of an object. |
| 2. Air Resistance |
B. The constant speed reached when the force of gravity equals air resistance. |
| 3. Drag Force |
C. The force of attraction between two objects with mass. |
| 4. Gravity |
D. Another term for air resistance. |
| 5. Net Force |
E. The vector sum of all forces acting on an object. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
An object reaches terminal velocity when the force of _________ pulling it down is equal to the force of _________ pushing it up. At this point, the _________ force on the object is zero, and its _________ remains constant. The magnitude of terminal velocity depends on the object's _________ and _________.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the shape of an object affects its terminal velocity. Provide examples to support your answer.