* Terminal velocity depends on factors beyond weight: While weight is a key factor, terminal velocity also depends on:
* Air resistance: This is the force that opposes an object's motion through the air. It increases with the object's speed and surface area.
* Shape and size: A more streamlined object experiences less air resistance. A larger object experiences more air resistance.
* Density of the air: Thicker air (like at lower altitudes) creates more resistance.
* How weight influences terminal velocity:
* Heavier objects have a greater gravitational force pulling them down. This means they need to reach a higher speed to balance the force of gravity with air resistance.
* A heavier object also experiences more air resistance at a given speed. However, the increased gravitational force generally outweighs this effect, resulting in a higher terminal velocity.
In summary: While a heavier object generally has a higher terminal velocity, it's not a simple relationship. Shape, size, and air density all play a role.
