Cheetahs are the fastest animal on land. They can accelerate from standing still to over 60 mph in just 3 seconds, and can reach speeds of up to 75 mph. Their muscular frame, and large nostrils allowing lots of oxygen in help their speed. The fastest animal in the world is the peregrine falcon. When flying horizontally, like most birds do, these falcons are able to reach a mere 55 mph. However, when they dive – they can accelerate to speeds of 200mph!! They fold in their wings, reducing air resistance, and plummet towards their prey. Adaptations in their nostrils allow them to breathe at high speeds. They also have glands in their corneas to prevent them drying out. GCSE scientists – you need to be able to investigate acceleration. It is one of the Required Practicals for Paper 2 (AQA).
For help with this try our new guides “How to work with Required Practicals: Part 8 and Part 9”. Part 8 focuses on the Physics practicals needed for Combined Science in Physics Paper 2 (AQA). Included in Part 9 are all the additional practicals needed on both papers for AQA Physics.
Part 8 includes:
Force and Extension, Acceleration, Generating and Observing Waves, Radiation and Absorption
Part 9 includes:
Thermal Insulation, Light
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