# A skydiver jumps from an aeroplane and falls vertically downwards. At first, the skydiver accelerates. After some time, the skydiver reaches terminal velocity. Explain why the skydiver first accelerates and then reaches terminal velocity.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 4.2 Forces, accelerations and Newton's laws of motion · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. At the start, the weight (gravitational force) is greater than the air resistance (drag)
2. Because there is a resultant (net) downward force, the skydiver accelerates (Newton's second law / unbalanced force causes acceleration)
3. As speed increases, air resistance (drag) increases
4. At terminal velocity, air resistance equals weight, so the resultant force is zero and the skydiver moves at constant velocity

## Key terms

- [terminal velocity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/terminal-velocity)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-skydiver-jumps-from-an-aeroplane-ae1375f8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.