Calculating the Force on a Parachuter Falling at 25 ms-1

In summary, the force on a parachuter falling at 25 ms-1 is calculated using the equation F = mg + D, where F is the force, m is the mass of the parachuter, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 ms-2), and D is the drag force. The drag force is the resistance force that acts opposite to the direction of motion of an object and is affected by speed, size, and shape. The force on a parachuter can be greater than their weight if the drag force is significant. As a parachuter falls at a higher speed, the force increases but eventually reaches a maximum and then decreases as the parachuter reaches terminal velocity. Other factors that can affect the force on
  • #1
songoku
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Homework Statement


A parachuter of mass 75 kg falls towards the Earth at a speed of 25 ms-1. What is the resultant force acting on the person?

a. 750 N
b. 450 N
c. 1,350 N
d. No net force
e. 1,500 N


Homework Equations


F = ma


The Attempt at a Solution


I think the answer is (d) because 25 ms-1 is constant speed. Am I right?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Yes. You are right.
 
  • #3
Thanks a lot Mr. rl.bhat :smile:
 

FAQ: Calculating the Force on a Parachuter Falling at 25 ms-1

How is the force on a parachuter falling at 25 ms-1 calculated?

The force on a parachuter falling at 25 ms-1 is calculated using the equation F = mg + D, where F is the force, m is the mass of the parachuter, g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 ms-2), and D is the drag force.

What is the drag force and how does it affect the force on a parachuter?

The drag force is the resistance force that acts opposite to the direction of motion of an object. It is affected by the speed, size, and shape of the object. In the case of a parachuter, the drag force increases as the parachuter falls faster, and it contributes to the overall force acting on the parachuter.

Can the force on a parachuter be greater than their weight?

Yes, the force on a parachuter can be greater than their weight if the drag force is significant. This is because the drag force adds to the force of gravity, resulting in a larger overall force acting on the parachuter.

How does the force on a parachuter change as they fall at a higher speed?

As a parachuter falls at a higher speed, the force on them increases due to the increase in drag force. However, at some point, the force will reach a maximum and then decrease as the parachuter reaches terminal velocity, where the force of gravity is balanced by the drag force.

What other factors can affect the force on a parachuter falling at 25 ms-1?

Other factors that can affect the force on a parachuter include the air density, the surface area of the parachute, and the design of the parachute. These factors can impact the amount of drag force acting on the parachuter and therefore affect the overall force on them.

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