Physics
Thinking Heavier Objects Fall Faster
Assuming a heavier object hits the ground before a lighter one dropped beside it.
Quick check
Why students make it
Everyday experience with air resistance, like a feather versus a rock, suggests weight controls falling speed.
The rule done right
Ignoring air resistance, all objects fall with the same acceleration regardless of mass. A heavier object needs more force to accelerate, and the two effects cancel.
Related resources
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Physics: Free Fall and g Infographic -
Newton's Second Law Infographic -
Physics: Drag and Terminal Velocity Infographic -
Newton's First Law Infographic -
Free Body Diagrams Infographic - Free Fall & Gravitational Acceleration Cheat Sheet
- Newton's Laws & Forces Cheat Sheet
- Free Body Diagrams Reference Cheat Sheet
- Kinematics Equations Cheat Sheet
- Drag Force & Terminal Velocity Cheat Sheet
- Kinematics: Velocity, Acceleration, and Motion Graphs Worksheet
- Physics: Newton's First Law Worksheet
- Physics: Friction and Air Resistance Worksheet
- Science: Free Body Diagrams Worksheet
- Kinematics Solver Tool
- Forces & Free-Body Diagram Tool Tool
- Projectile Motion Calculator Tool
- Gravity & Falling Objects Lab Lab
- Atwood Machine Lab Lab
- Balanced Forces Lab Lab
- Newton's First Law Lab Lab