B Does air resistance have a max value?

AI Thread Summary
Air resistance does not have a theoretical maximum value like static friction, but it does reach a limit in free fall known as terminal velocity. This occurs when the gravitational force acting on the object is balanced by the drag force, or air resistance. The drag force is influenced by factors such as the object's shape and orientation, which determine the drag coefficient. In practical terms, the maximum air resistance experienced is equal to the object's weight at terminal velocity. Understanding these dynamics clarifies how objects behave when falling through the atmosphere.
r4g3r4hk
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I know that friction on a surface has a maximum value. When an object is pushed with a force greater than the maximum friction value, the object will move.
But when a free-falling object falls from a height, does air resistance have a maximum value as well?
 
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r4g3r4hk said:
I know that friction on a surface has a maximum value. When an object is pushed with a force greater than the maximum friction value, the object will move.
That's an odd way to view it. Static friction is a function of the normal force. There is no theoretical limit, only practical/materials limits.
But when a free-falling object falls from a height, does air resistance have a maximum value as well?
By constraining the scenario to [atmospheric, I assume] free fall, you are defining the drag limit to be equal to the weight of the object.
 
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Thanks for the replies! I believe I understand now.
 

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