TEAS 7 practice test free science Related

Review TEAS 7 practice test free science related questions and content

In physics, what does the term 'terminal velocity' refer to?

  • A. Maximum velocity reached by an object in free fall
  • B. Velocity when the object is at rest
  • C. Instantaneous velocity of an object
  • D. Velocity only reached by heavy objects
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Terminal velocity in physics refers to the maximum velocity achieved by an object in free fall when the force of gravity equals the force of air resistance. At terminal velocity, the object stops accelerating and maintains a constant speed. This occurs when the opposing forces are balanced, leading to no further increase in speed. Choice B is incorrect as velocity when the object is at rest is zero, not at terminal velocity. Choice C is incorrect as instantaneous velocity refers to the velocity at a specific moment in time, not the maximum speed reached in free fall. Choice D is incorrect because terminal velocity is not exclusive to heavy objects; all objects in free fall can reach terminal velocity under the right conditions.