What is terminal velocity?

Terminal velocity occurs when an object in free fall doesn't accelerate any further. As F=ma, when a = 0, F must be 0. F in this equation refers to resultant force. Because all objects in earth's gravity have a downwards force on them of mg, then for there to be no resultant force, there must be a corresponding upwards force of mg due to air resistance. 

So at the point where the force due to air resistance and the force due to gravity are equal, an object in free fall is at terminal velocity. 

VN
Answered by Vedanth N. Physics tutor

4659 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is meant by terminal velocity?


Why do airbags make a car safer


A person has a suitcase with wheels. The person pulls the suitcase with a horizontal force of 13 N for 110 m. Calculate the work done on the suitcase by the person (3 marks).


Does kinetic friction always oppose the direction of motion?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences