* Terminal velocity is the maximum speed an object reaches while falling. It's not technically the "highest" velocity, but rather the *maximum* velocity.

* Why does this happen? As an object falls, air resistance (drag) increases. This drag force opposes the force of gravity. Eventually, the drag force equals the force of gravity, and the object stops accelerating.

* So, is terminal velocity the absolute highest speed an object could reach? No.

* If the object enters a denser medium (like water after falling from a great height), its terminal velocity would change.

* If the object's shape or surface changes (like deploying a parachute), its terminal velocity would also change.

In short: Terminal velocity is the highest speed an object reaches in a specific environment due to the balance of gravity and air resistance. It's not a universal "highest" speed.