Concept:Terminal velocity is exclusively reached when the upward drag force (which increases with speed) grows large enough to exactly cancel out the downward force of gravity (weight).
Formula:$$ F_{\text{net}} = W - F_{\text{drag}} $$
Solution:- A heavy coin has a significant downward weight.
- As it falls, it accelerates, and the opposing drag force begins to increase from zero.
- Because the drop distance is very short, the coin simply hits the ground before it can accelerate to a speed fast enough for the drag force to match its heavy weight.
- Thus, the net force remains positive downwards the entire brief trip.
Why other options are incorrect:Weight (\( mg \)) is constant over short drops, ruling out A. Air resistance exists but hasn't scaled up yet, ruling out B. The coin's mass is large, making it harder (not easier) for drag to catch up, ruling out C.
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