An Object Falling Freely Through the Atmosphere Will Accelerate Due

question 32

Essay

An object falling freely through the atmosphere will accelerate due to the force of gravity at 9.86 m/s² [Acceleration is the derivative of velocity with respect to time.] The atmosphere, however, will commonly exert a retarding force proportional to the object's velocity squared. The proportionality constant will depend largely on the object's shape. Write and solve the differential equation, then identify a free-falling object's terminal velocity (the limiting velocity) in terms of its drag proportionality constant, k. [To solve explicitly, you may use the initial condition v(0) = 0.]

---

Definitions:

Complete Sentence

A group of words that expresses a complete thought, typically containing a subject and a predicate.

Audience-centered

An approach to communication that tailors the message to the preferences, interests, and expectations of the intended audience.

General Purpose

The broad, overarching goal or intent behind an action, strategy, or communication.

To Actuate

To put into motion or action; to initiate or activate.