Retarding Force (Noun)
Meaning
The phenomenon of resistance to motion through a fluid.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural phenomena.
Examples
- Air resistance is an example of a retarding force that slows down moving objects, converting their kinetic energy into heat and sound.
- When a boat moves through water, the retarding force it encounters depends on its velocity, the density of the water, and the shape of its hull.
- Friction is not the only retarding force at work on an object, air resistance and drag are other forms that resist an object's motion.
- By using sleek, aerodynamic shapes, cars can minimize the retarding force caused by air resistance, resulting in higher speeds and greater efficiency.
- At terminal velocity, the weight of the falling object is exactly equal to the retarding force due to air resistance, causing it to cease accelerating downward.