What is the Acceleration of a Skydiver with Air Resistance?

In summary, the question asks for the magnitude of acceleration for a falling sky diver with a mass of 62.5kg, when the upward force of air resistance is equal to one fourth of her weight. Using the formula Fnet=ma and taking into account the opposing forces of weight and air resistance, one can calculate the acceleration. However, it is important to note that weight and mass are different concepts, with weight being the product of mass and the acceleration due to gravity.
  • #1
shimizua
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Homework Statement


What is the magnitude of the acceleration of a falling sky diver (mass 62.5kg including parachute) when the upward force of air resistance is equal to one fourth of her weight?

so i know that Fnet=ma but since i do not know what either the Fnet or the a is i have no idea on how to figure it out.
 
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  • #2
The force from gravity is the skydiver's weight. The air resistance opposes her weight, therefore the resultant force is the weight minus the resistance. I'm sure you can get acceleration from there.
 
  • #3
ok so i tried doing her weight, 62.5 - (62.5/4) and that was wrong and then someone had told me to use gravity with this also so i tried 62.5(9.8)-((62.5*9.8)/4) and that was wrong as well. where am i going wrong?
 
  • #4
Weight and mass are distinct. Weight is mass multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity. The second part of your work has calculated the net force. The question asks for acceleration.
 

FAQ: What is the Acceleration of a Skydiver with Air Resistance?

What is the definition of magnitude of acceleration?

The magnitude of acceleration is the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time. It is a measure of how quickly the speed or direction of an object is changing.

How is magnitude of acceleration calculated?

Magnitude of acceleration is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. This can be represented by the formula a = (vf - vi) / t, where a is the magnitude of acceleration, vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the change in time.

What is the difference between magnitude of acceleration and acceleration?

The terms "magnitude of acceleration" and "acceleration" are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. Acceleration refers to the change in velocity of an object, while magnitude of acceleration specifically refers to the size or amount of that change.

How does magnitude of acceleration affect an object's motion?

The magnitude of acceleration can affect an object's motion by determining how quickly its velocity changes. Higher magnitudes of acceleration result in more significant changes in velocity, which can lead to faster or more dramatic motion.

What factors can influence the magnitude of acceleration?

The magnitude of acceleration can be influenced by factors such as the force applied to an object, the mass of the object, and any external forces acting on the object (such as friction or air resistance). The direction of the acceleration also plays a role in determining its magnitude.

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