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air resistance

Definition

Air resistance is the force that air exerts on objects that are moving through it. It is also known as drag. Air resistance opposes the motion of an object, making it harder for the object to move.

Air resistance is caused by the collisions of air molecules with the object. When an object moves through the air, the air molecules collide with the object's surface. These collisions slow down the object's motion.

The amount of air resistance that an object experiences depends on the object's size, shape, and speed. Larger objects experience more air resistance than smaller objects. Objects with a smooth surface experience less air resistance than objects with a rough surface. Objects that move faster experience more air resistance than objects that move slower.

Air resistance is an important force in many different situations. For example, air resistance is what makes it possible for aeroplanes to fly. Air resistance also affects the way that objects fall through the air.

Imagine that you are walking through a forest. As you walk, you will feel the branches and leaves of the trees brush against you. This is similar to the way that air molecules collide with an object that is moving through the air. In the same way, air resistance is the force that air molecules exert on objects that are moving through it. It is what makes it harder for objects to move through the air.

How can the word be used?

The air resistance slowed down the falling leaf.

air resistance

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • air resistance (no plural form).
  • the force that air exerts on an object as it moves through the air.

Adjective:

  • air-resistant.
  • able to withstand the force of air resistance.

Verb:

  • air-resist.
  • to oppose the force of air resistance.

Etymology

The word "air resistance" is a compound noun that is made up of the words "air" and "resistance." The word "air" refers to the gaseous mixture that surrounds the Earth, and the word "resistance" refers to the opposition to the motion of an object.

Question

How does air resistance help planes take off?