What does the term terminal velocity mean?

Terminal velocity is the constant speed (in a particular direction) a body reaches when the forces are balanced, i.e. acceleration = 0 m s-2.

An example of this is a ball bearing dropped in oil.

⬆ Resistance (R)

O

⬇ Weight (W=mg)

Explanation: At first the forces are unbalanced and W > R so the ball accelerates downwards. The faster the ball moves the greater R is, so R is increasing. A point is reached where R = W. There is now no net force acting on the ball so it moves at a constant velocity (Newton's first law). This is the terminal velocity.

DD
Answered by Daisy D. Physics tutor

5949 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the acceleration of particle thats velocity changes from 20ms^-1 to 40ms^-1 in 5 seconds, assuming its constant.


The loudspeaker produces a sound wave with a frequency of 850 hertz and a wavelength of 0.4 metres. Calculate the speed of this sound wave. Give the unit


Describe the generator effect and its use within transformers (6 marks)


What is the life cycle of a star?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning