Impact Speed vs Terminal Velocity

AI Thread Summary
Impact speed refers to the velocity of a falling object at the moment it strikes the ground, while terminal velocity is the maximum speed reached when the force of air resistance equals gravitational force, resulting in zero net acceleration. The equation vt=9.8t provides a way to calculate the speed at impact for an object falling from rest. As an object falls, it accelerates until air resistance increases to balance gravitational pull, leading to terminal velocity. Understanding the distinction between these two concepts is crucial for physics applications involving free fall and motion. The discussion clarifies the dynamics of falling objects in relation to speed and resistance.
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What's the difference between impact speed and terminal velocity? I'm reading a book that gives a shortcut about how to calculate "The speed at impact in the y-direction when falling from rest" and it gives the eguation vt=9.8t.
 
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Impact Speed: The speed at which a falling object hits the ground

Terminal Velocity: The fastest speed an object can go as its acceleration is slowly decreased over time due to air resistance (air resistance works against gravity; eventually, the force of air resistance = the force of gravity)
 

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