Describe the different forces upon a falling object with reference to Newton's first law.

A falling object will reach terminal velocity when the force draging it down (ie its weight due to gravity) is equal to the air resistance opposing the motion upwards. When the two forces are equal the object will experience a constant velocity downwards and thus no acceleration. This is in accordance with Newton's second law that states that an object will remain in its current state of motion unless acted upon by another force.

AL
Answered by Adam L. Physics tutor

3221 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The time taken for a wave to pass a point is 2.5 seconds. What is the frequency of the wave?


A kettle boils 0.6kg of water. After some time the temperature of the water has decreased to 83 degrees. The specific heat capacity of water is 4200J/kg. Calculate the energy transferred to the surroundings.


An airplane accelerates steadily from rest to 355 m/s, after travelling a distance of 105,000 m. How long, in minutes, does it take the airplane to reach this speed?


A student investigated how the resistance of a piece of nichrome wire varies box with length.Describe how the student would obtain the data needed for the investigation. Your answer should include a risk assessment for one hazard in the investigation.


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