* Terminal Velocity: Terminal velocity is the constant speed that a freely falling object eventually reaches when the force of air resistance equals the force of gravity.
* Air Resistance: Air resistance is a force that opposes the motion of an object through the air. It increases with the surface area of the object and its speed.
How it works:
1. Larger Surface Area: An object with a larger surface area experiences a greater force of air resistance. Think of a parachute versus a rock – the parachute has a much larger surface area, so it catches more air and slows down more.
2. Smaller Surface Area: An object with a smaller surface area encounters less air resistance. It takes longer for the force of air resistance to equal the force of gravity, so it takes longer to reach terminal velocity.
Example:
* A feather with a large surface area falls slowly and takes a long time to reach terminal velocity.
* A bullet with a small surface area falls quickly and reaches terminal velocity much faster.
Key takeaway: A larger surface area means more air resistance, which slows down the object and takes longer to reach terminal velocity.
