Question

(b) Explain, in terms of forces, why the box and parachute fall at constant velocity.

Answer 1

Answer:

As the skydiver gains speed, their weight stays the same but the air resistance increases. There is still a resultant force acting downwards, but this gradually decreases. Eventually, the skydiver's weight is balanced by the air resistance. There is no resultant force and the skydiver reaches terminal velocity.