What is air resistance?

Air resistance is the force experienced by objects when they move through the air. It acts in the opposite direction to the motion of the object and is caused by the collision of air molecules with the object. The amount of air resistance an object experiences depends on its size, shape, speed, and the viscosity of the air. Objects with a larger surface area experience more air resistance than those with a smaller surface area. As an object moves faster, the air resistance increases. Air resistance affects the motion of everything from airplanes to bicycles to falling raindrops. It can be both helpful and detrimental, depending on the situation. For example, airplane wings are designed to create lift while minimizing air resistance, while a parachutist relies on air resistance to slow their descent and land safely.