Chapter 5, Problem 25A

The speed of falling rain is the same 10 m above ground as it is just before it hits the ground. What does this tell you about whether or not the rain encounters air resistance?

To determine

To Explain: Whether the rain encounters air resistance or not.

Answer to Problem 25A

Yes, the rain encounters air resistance.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Terminal velocity: It is the maximum velocity that is attained by an object when it falls through a fluid. When force due to gravity becomes equal to air resistance force, at that moment,the velocity of rain will be said to beat terminal velocity.

At some point, the force due to gravity becomes equal to air resistance force due to which speed of falling rain will remain the same, that is, at 10m above the ground, and the moment before it hits the ground. Thus, it can be said that the rain has reached its terminal velocity.

Conclusion:

Therefore, rain encounters air resistance.