1. Ignoring Air Resistance:
* Constant Acceleration: In a vacuum, the only force acting on a falling object is gravity. This results in a constant downward acceleration, denoted by 'g' (approximately 9.8 m/s² on Earth).
* Linear Increase in Velocity: As the object falls, its velocity increases linearly with time. This means the velocity increases by the same amount every second. The equation for this is:
* v = u + gt
* Where:
* v = final velocity
* u = initial velocity (usually 0 if the object starts from rest)
* g = acceleration due to gravity
* t = time
2. Considering Air Resistance:
* Variable Acceleration: Air resistance opposes the motion of the falling object. This force increases with the object's velocity. As a result, the acceleration of the object decreases over time.
* Terminal Velocity: Eventually, the air resistance force becomes equal to the force of gravity. At this point, the net force on the object is zero, and it stops accelerating. This constant velocity is called terminal velocity.
Summary:
* Initially: The falling object accelerates at a constant rate due to gravity.
* Later: Air resistance slows the acceleration, and the velocity increases at a decreasing rate.
* Finally: The object reaches terminal velocity, and its velocity becomes constant.
Factors Influencing Terminal Velocity:
* Object Shape: A streamlined shape reduces air resistance and leads to a higher terminal velocity.
* Object Mass: Heavier objects have a higher terminal velocity because the force of gravity is stronger.
* Air Density: Terminal velocity is lower in denser air.
Key Takeaway:
The velocity of a falling object increases over time, but the rate of increase changes due to air resistance. This ultimately leads to a constant velocity known as terminal velocity.
