* Air Resistance: Terminal velocity is reached when the force of gravity pulling an object down is balanced by the force of air resistance pushing it up.
* Surface Area and Shape: Air resistance is heavily dependent on the surface area and shape of an object. A piece of paper, with its large, flat surface, will experience much more air resistance than a compact pellet of the same weight.
* Density: While not the primary factor in this case, the density of the objects also plays a role. A denser object will experience less air resistance relative to its weight.
In summary: The pellet, despite having the same mass as the paper, has a much smaller surface area and a more streamlined shape, resulting in significantly less air resistance. This allows it to reach a higher terminal velocity before the forces balance out.
