Raindrops fall to the ground with a uniform, constant velocity. This constant velocity is achieved when the gravitational pull is perfectly balanced by: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Raindrops fall to the ground with a uniform, constant velocity. This constant velocity is achieved when the gravitational pull is perfectly balanced by:
A. The sum of viscous drag force and buoyant force
B. Surface tension of the drop
C. Viscous drag force alone
D. Buoyant force alone
Answer: Option A
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
As a raindrop falls, it accelerates due to gravity. The upward viscous drag force of the air increases with the drop's velocity (Stokes' Law). Eventually, the downward weight of the drop is exactly balanced by the upward buoyant force of the air plus the upward viscous drag force. The net force becomes zero, and it falls with a constant 'terminal velocity'.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
SONAR technology utilizes which type of waves?
A. Visible light
B. Ultrasonic waves
C. Infrasonic waves
D. Radio waves

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging) uses ultrasonic waves (frequency > 20 kHz) because they have high directionality, short wavelength for better resolution, and minimal absorption in water. Radio waves attenuate rapidly in water; infrasonic waves have long wavelengths unsuitable for detection; light doesn't propagate far in water. Memory tip: 'Ultra = beyond human hearing; used in SONAR/ultrasound imaging'. This application question tests knowledge of wave frequency ranges and their practical uses, common in competitive exams linking physics to technology. Always recall frequency thresholds: infrasonic 20kHz.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
Refractive index n = c/v. For glass n=1.5, light speed is:
A. 4.5×10⁸ m/s
B. 2×10⁸ m/s
C. 1.5×10⁸ m/s
D. 3×10⁸ m/s

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
v = c/n = 3×10⁸/1.5 = 2×10⁸ m/s. Direct refractive index formula application. Memory tip: 'Higher n ⇒ slower light; v = c/n'. Basic optics calculation frequently tested in competitive exams to verify formula recall and unit handling.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
The loudness of sound depends on
A. Frequency
B. Wavelength
C. Speed
D. Amplitude

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Loudness correlates with intensity, which is proportional to square of amplitude. Frequency determines pitch. Larger amplitude → louder sound. Measured in decibels.

This question belongs to: Science Physics