Terminal Velocity
Definition
Terminal velocity is the constant maximum velocity reached by an object falling through a fluid (such as air) when the force of gravity pulling it downward is balanced by an upward force (like air resistance).
Analogy
Think of skydiving with a parachute. When you first jump out of the plane, you accelerate due to gravity. However, once your parachute opens and air resistance increases, you reach terminal velocity where your speed remains constant because gravity and air resistance are balanced.
Related terms
Drag Force: The force exerted on an object moving through a fluid that opposes its motion.
Free Fall: The motion of an object under only the influence of gravity, without any other forces acting upon it.
Air Resistance: A type of drag force caused by collisions between an object and molecules in the surrounding air.
"Terminal Velocity" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Study guides (1)
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.