A Levels Physics (9702)•9702/13/M/J/23

Explanation
Terminal velocity balances forces differently for varying masses
Steps:
- Sum of drag and buoyancy equals weight, so net force is zero and acceleration is zero for both balls.
- Buoyancy is identical due to same volume displaced in the liquid.
- Heavier ball has greater weight, requiring larger drag force to balance.
- Drag force proportional to velocity squared (F_d = ½ ρ v² C_d A), so heavier ball reaches higher terminal velocity.
Why D is correct:
- Heavier ball's greater weight demands higher drag for equilibrium, increasing its terminal speed per drag formula.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Both have zero acceleration at terminal velocity.
- B: Both have zero acceleration at terminal velocity.
- C: Speeds differ because drag must match unequal weights with same buoyancy.
Final answer: D
Topic: Equilibrium of forces
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