Question

A solid sphere falls with a terminal velocity of 20 m/* in air. If it is allowed to fall in vacuum,

(a) terminal velocity will be 20 m/*

(b) terminal velocity will be less than 20 m/*

(c) terminal velocity will be more than 20 m/*

(d) there will be no terminal velocity.

Answer 1

(d) there will be no terminal velocity.

Explanation:

The term, terminal velocity is associated with a falling object in a fluid where the force of viscosity balances the weight and buoyancy force. Since there is no medium in the vacuum, there is no viscosity to oppose the motion. So the solid sphere will keep accelerating and there will be no terminal velocity.