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terminal velocity| The maximum velocity that can be reached by a given object moving through a fluid (gas or liquid) under the action of an applied force. As the speed of the object increases so does the total magnitude of the forces resisting its motion. Terminal velocity is reached when the resistive forces exactly balance the applied force that has caused the object to accelerate; because there is now no resultant force, there can be no further acceleration. |
| For example, an object falling through air experiences air resistance. It will reach a terminal velocity and cease to accelerate under the influence of gravity when the air resistance equals the force of gravity (the object's weight). |
| Parachutes are designed to increase air resistance so that the acceleration of a falling person or package ceases more rapidly, thereby limiting terminal velocity to a safe level. |
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