The object reaches terminal velocity.
Here's the breakdown:
* Weight: The force of gravity pulling the object downwards.
* Air resistance (Drag): The force opposing the object's motion through the air, increasing as the object's speed increases.
The Key Point: When air resistance becomes equal to the object's weight, the forces on the object balance out. This means:
* Net force: The object experiences zero net force (weight - air resistance = 0).
* Acceleration: Since there's no net force, the object stops accelerating.
* Constant velocity: The object continues falling at a constant speed, known as terminal velocity.
Think of it like this:
Imagine a skydiver. At the start of their jump, they're accelerating downwards due to gravity. As they speed up, air resistance grows. Eventually, the air resistance becomes strong enough to counter their weight, and they stop accelerating. They reach a steady, constant falling speed – their terminal velocity.
Important Note: Terminal velocity varies depending on factors like:
* Object's shape and size: A wider object experiences more air resistance.
* Object's mass: A heavier object has a higher terminal velocity.
* Air density: Thicker air (like at lower altitudes) creates more air resistance, resulting in a lower terminal velocity.
