What defines terminal velocity for an object in free fall?

Terminal velocity is defined as the constant speed attained by an object when the force of gravity pulling it downward is balanced by the drag forces acting against it as it falls through a fluid (like air). At this point, the net force acting on the object becomes zero, meaning it no longer accelerates and instead continues to fall at a steady speed.

When an object is in free fall, it initially accelerates due to gravity. As its speed increases, the drag force (which depends on factors like the object's shape, surface area, and the density of the fluid through which it falls) also increases. Eventually, the drag force will equal the gravitational force, resulting in no further acceleration. This balance of forces signifies that the object has reached terminal velocity.

The initial speed when dropped does not account for the balance of forces that defines terminal velocity, nor does the speed just before impact (which could be different based on the distance fallen and acceleration). Additionally, an object's temperature does not influence its terminal velocity directly, as terminal velocity is determined by the forces acting on it during its descent rather than its thermal state. Thus, the accurate characterization of terminal velocity focuses on the balance between gravitational and drag forces, confirming the chosen answer.