Chapter 4, Problem 18A

Does air resistance increase or decrease the acceleration of a falling object?

To determine

To identify: Whether air resistance increases or decreases the acceleration of a falling object.

Answer to Problem 18A

Anair resistance will decrease the acceleration of a falling object.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Air resistance is the friction that acts on an object moving through air thus effecting the acceleration of an object. It is a very common form of fluid friction. The air resistance force that is experienced by an object depends upon its speed and area.

Earth applies a gravitational force on every object that is falling. Due to this, the speed of the falling object increases as it continuously approaches towards Earth. But in real life, the air resistance opposes the motion of an object. Thus, the acceleration of an object decreases.

Conclusion:

Therefore, air resistance will decrease the acceleration of falling object.