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When a heavy coin fallsa short distance towards the ground it does not reach terminal velocity. Why is this so?

Correct answer: D. The weight of coin is more than air resistance

  • A. The coin has not hit the ground
  • B. The weight of coin is equal to air resistance
  • C. The weight of coin increases as air resistance increases
  • D. The weight of coin is more than air resistance

Explanation

In the case of a heavy coin falling a short distance towards the ground, it does not reach terminal velocity because the weight of the coin is greater than the air resistance it experiences. As the coin falls, the force of gravity acting on it (weight) is larger than the opposing force of air resistance. As a result, the net force on the coin remains non-zero, and it continues to accelerate until it hits the ground.

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About Fluid Dynamics

Fluid flow is described through speed, pressure and density, including steady flow and the equation of continuity for conserving mass. Bernoulli's equation relates pressure, speed and height, while fluid drag and terminal velocity explain why a falling object eventually moves at constant speed when drag balances its weight.

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