falling objects

Question 1

what are the two main forces that act when a parachutist jumps out of an aeroplane?

Answer 1

1) weight (the force of gravity)

2) air resistance

Question 2

explain the events that occur when a parachutist jumps out of an aeroplane. (5marks)

Answer 2

1) at first, the air resistance is small and the person accelerates.
2) as the person speeds up, air resistance increases.
3) eventually the air resistance balances the weight and so the sky diver travels at a constant speed (terminal velocity)
4) when the parachute opens, there is a large upward force which causes the sky diver to decelerate.
5) finally, the forces balance out again and the skydiver reaches a much slower terminal velocity.