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

5132 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Two cars are moving parallel to each other on a road. The first car is moving at a speed of 11 m/s, while the second car is moving at 17 m/s, what is the speed of the second car, relative to the first car.


How does a radioactive nucleus emit electrons when it doesn't contain any?


Explain the role of the moderator in a fission reaction.


Explain what terminal velocity means.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning