What is terminal velocity?

Terminal velocity occurs when an object in free fall doesn't accelerate any further. As F=ma, when a = 0, F must be 0. F in this equation refers to resultant force. Because all objects in earth's gravity have a downwards force on them of mg, then for there to be no resultant force, there must be a corresponding upwards force of mg due to air resistance. 

So at the point where the force due to air resistance and the force due to gravity are equal, an object in free fall is at terminal velocity. 

VN
Answered by Vedanth N. Physics tutor

5766 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Draw a graph depicting a skydivers speed against time when jumping from a plane, until he deploys his parachute, explaining the logic of your answer through the forces applicable to the body.


A car horn has a frequency of 680 Hz and a wavelength of 50cm. Calculate the speed of the sound waves produced by the car horn:


A cyclist travels along a straight flat road. Describe the condition required for the cyclist to continue traveling along the road at a constant speed. How does this condition change if the cyclist travels up a slope?


How do diodes work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning