Define terminal velocity.

Terminal velocity is the constant maximum velocity reached by a falling object when the drag force equals the weight, resulting in zero net force and zero acceleration.

What is the initial acceleration of an object falling in a uniform gravitational field when drag is negligible?

The initial acceleration equals g (the gravitational field strength).

In an experiment to determine terminal velocity in a viscous liquid, what is the first step?

Drop a ball-bearing into the viscous liquid.

How are distance intervals used when measuring terminal velocity in a viscous liquid?

Distance intervals are marked on the container so the ball-bearing's position can be tracked as it falls.

What timing measurements are taken when determining terminal velocity in a viscous liquid?

The time for the ball-bearing to pass each marker is recorded.

How do you identify when terminal velocity has been reached in a viscous liquid experiment?

Terminal velocity is reached when the time intervals between successive markers become constant.

OCR A-Level Physics A H556

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Terminal velocity

2 things to know
Papers 1 and 3

Overview

Recall questions on defining terminal velocity, the initial acceleration of a falling object, and determining terminal velocity experimentally in a viscous liquid and with paper cones in air.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

In a viscous liquid experiment, how is terminal velocity identified and then calculated?

Numbers

State the equation for pressure at a depth in a fluid, explain why pressure increases with depth, and explain why the bottom surface of a submerged object is at greater pressure than the top.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
Define terminal velocity.
Model answer
Terminal velocity is the constant maximum velocity reached by a falling object when the drag force equals the weight, resulting in zero net force and zero acceleration.
2
What is the initial acceleration of an object falling in a uniform gravitational field when drag is negligible?
Model answer
The initial acceleration equals g (the gravitational field strength).
3
In an experiment to determine terminal velocity in a viscous liquid, what is the first step?
Model answer
Drop a ball-bearing into the viscous liquid.
4
How are distance intervals used when measuring terminal velocity in a viscous liquid?
Model answer
Distance intervals are marked on the container so the ball-bearing's position can be tracked as it falls.
5
What timing measurements are taken when determining terminal velocity in a viscous liquid?
Model answer
The time for the ball-bearing to pass each marker is recorded.
6
How do you identify when terminal velocity has been reached in a viscous liquid experiment?
Model answer
Terminal velocity is reached when the time intervals between successive markers become constant.

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