Here's why:
* Gravity: Gravity constantly pulls objects towards the center of the Earth.
* Air Resistance: As an object falls, it encounters air resistance (also called drag). This force opposes the object's motion and increases as the object's speed increases.
At terminal velocity:
* The forces of gravity and air resistance are balanced.
* The object stops accelerating and falls at a constant speed.
Important Notes:
* Terminal velocity is not a fixed speed: It varies depending on the object's shape, mass, and the density of the air.
* Reaching terminal velocity takes time: An object will accelerate until the forces balance out.
* Objects can reach terminal velocity before hitting the ground: For example, a skydiver can reach terminal velocity during freefall.
Let me know if you'd like more details about any of these concepts!
