4.4 drag and terminal velocity

Question 1

List the factors that increase the size of drag force exerted on an object

Answer 1

If…
- the surface area of the object is greater
- its relative speed is greater
- the fluid is more viscous ( high resistance to flow e.g. honey )
- the objects shape is les aerodynamic

Question 2

Explain why a skydiver reaches terminal velocity

Answer 2

• As their velocity increases, the drag force acting on them also increases
• until the drag force acting on them is the same as their weight
• this causes the net force on them to be zero
• therefore, they no longer accelerate, as both forces acting on the are equal to each other

Question 3

What direction does friction act in

Answer 3

In the opposite direction to the movement of the object