AP Physics C: Mechanics
2.9 Resistive Forces
2.5 Newton’s Second Law
A balloon of initial mass \(m_0\) falls vertically downward in a uniform gravitational field \(g\). As it falls, it leaks gas at a constant rate \(\alpha = -\dfrac{dm}{dt} > 0\), giving an instantaneous mass \(m(t) = m_0 - \alpha t\). The surrounding air exerts an upward drag force of magnitude \(F_d = bv\), where \(b > \alpha\) is a constant and \(v\) is the downward speed. Assuming the expelled gas exits with zero velocity relative to the balloon, which of the following expressions gives the balloon's downward speed \(v(t)\) once it reaches a quasi-steady state in which its speed decreases proportionally to its mass?
Similar Questions
Tools for a 5
AP aligned mock tests to help you get a 5.
With grading, adaptive explanations, and more.
Find a Quiz
Find, solve, and grade every AP FRQ ever.
Find an FRQ
Stuck on AP Physics C: Mechanics? Get unstuck with an AP specialist.1 to 1 tutors who know the exam inside out. Understand weeks of material in a single session.Find a Tutor
Learn AP Physics from scratch, quickly. This is the only course you'll need for the year.
A self-paced course with everything you need to get a 5. Trusted by over 15,000 students and 200+ schools. Learn fast, or we'll refund your purchase, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Explore the Course