Skydiving: Friction, Velocity, and Parachutes

In summary, the conversation was about whether the answer provided by the individual was sufficient for the question asked. The answer discussed how a skydiver's velocity changes during a jump and suggested creating a graph and looking up equations for terminal velocity.
  • #1
skanecfc
5
0
Evening everyone
I wanted to see if my answer would be considered adequate for the question? If its not please suggest anything i could add to it, my answer is:

The skydiver will accelerate as soon as they exit the aircraft, as this happens, the frictional force increases and the forces are balanced, note that velocity is constant, when the skydiver opens the parachute, the velocity will decrease until landing.

thanks
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


it all sounds correct so far. You may want to make a graph of velocity vs time. You also may want to look up some equations for terminal velocity, etc.
 

FAQ: Skydiving: Friction, Velocity, and Parachutes

What is friction and how does it affect skydiving?

Friction is the resistance force that occurs when two surfaces rub against each other. In skydiving, friction plays a significant role in the deployment of the parachute. As the parachute opens, friction between the air and the parachute fabric creates drag, which slows down the descent of the skydiver.

How does velocity impact a skydiver's experience?

Velocity, or the speed at which an object is moving, is a crucial factor in skydiving. As a skydiver exits the plane, they experience an increase in velocity due to the force of gravity. The velocity can also be affected by the body's position, air density, and wind speed, which all contribute to the skydiver's overall experience and can impact the landing.

What role does air resistance play in skydiving?

Air resistance, also known as air drag, is the force that opposes the motion of an object through the air. In skydiving, air resistance plays a significant role in slowing down the descent of the skydiver. As the skydiver falls, their body creates a larger surface area, which increases air resistance and helps to slow down their descent.

How do parachutes work in skydiving?

Parachutes work by using air resistance to slow down the descent of a skydiver. When a parachute is deployed, it opens up and creates a large surface area, which increases air resistance. This air resistance, or drag, helps to slow down the skydiver's descent, allowing them to land safely on the ground.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a parachute for skydiving?

When choosing a parachute for skydiving, there are several crucial factors to consider. These include the skydiver's weight, the type of skydiving they will be doing, the weather conditions, and the altitude at which they will be jumping. It is essential to choose a parachute that is appropriate for the skydiver's skill level and the specific conditions of their jump to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Back
Top