Extra TopicsAQA

Terminal Velocity

Revise Terminal Velocity in Extra Topics for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 11 flashcards. Use the notes, sample questions, and flashcards below to connect this topic to the rest of your GCSE revision plan.

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Why Skydivers Don't Keep Getting Faster

Introduction 2

The Forces on a Falling Object — Step by Step

Deep Dive 3

Velocity-Time Graphs for Falling Objects

Deep Dive 4

Why Drag Increases with Speed

How It Works 5

Comparing Terminal Velocities

Comparison 6

Key Terms

Definitions 7

Key Facts

Key Facts 8

Common Misconceptions

Misconceptions 9

Memory Aids

Memory Aid 10

Higher Tier: Quantitative Analysis of Terminal Velocity

Higher Tier 11

Exam Focus — Terminal Velocity

Exam Focus 12

Exam Tips for Terminal Velocity

Exam Tips 13

Knowledge Organiser: Terminal Velocity

Summary

Sample Flashcards

What is terminal velocity?

The constant velocity reached when drag force equals weight, so resultant force = 0 and acceleration stops

Why does terminal velocity occur?

As an object speeds up, drag increases. Eventually drag = weight, resultant force = 0, so acceleration stops (F = ma)

Exam questions for Terminal Velocity

An object reaches terminal velocity when falling through air. Which statement correctly describes the forces at terminal velocity?

A. Weight is greater than drag force
B. Drag force is greater than weight
C. Weight equals drag force
D. There are no forces acting on the object

1 markfoundation

Explain how a skydiver reaches terminal velocity after jumping from a plane. Include changes to forces and acceleration in your answer.

3 marksstandard

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