Here's how it works:
* Gravity: The primary force acting on a falling object is gravity, which pulls it downwards.
* Air Resistance: As an object falls, it collides with air molecules. These collisions create a force that opposes the object's motion. The faster the object falls, the more air molecules it collides with, and the greater the air resistance.
Factors affecting air resistance:
* Shape: A streamlined shape (like a teardrop) experiences less air resistance than a flat or wide shape.
* Surface Area: A larger surface area means more collisions with air molecules, leading to greater air resistance.
* Speed: As speed increases, air resistance increases exponentially.
* Density of the air: Denser air (like at higher altitudes) provides more resistance.
Terminal Velocity: When the force of air resistance equals the force of gravity, the object stops accelerating and falls at a constant speed called terminal velocity.
