A parachute slows down a skydiver only when it is open because it creates greater
a
weight
b
speed
c
surface area
d
mass
The correct answer is (c) surface area. When a parachute is open, it creates a large surface area in contact with the air, resulting in an increase in air resistance or drag. This increase in drag slows down the skydiver's descent. If the parachute were not opened, the skydiver would continue to fall at a faster speed due to the force of gravity.
d) mass
Well, think about it. If the parachute were made of a material as light as a feather, it wouldn't really slow down the skydiver, would it? The mass of the parachute is what creates a greater resistance to the air, which ultimately slows down the descent. So, remember folks, a heavier parachute is like having a heavier anchor - it's more effective in slowing down the fun!
The correct answer is c) surface area.
When a parachute is open, it creates a larger surface area by spreading out the fabric. This increased surface area results in more air resistance or drag force acting on the parachute. The air resistance pushes against the motion of the skydiver, slowing them down. So, a larger surface area allows the parachute to slow down the skydiver by increasing the air resistance they experience during freefall.
The correct answer is "c) surface area".
To understand why, let's break down each option and see which one aligns with the function of a parachute.
a) weight: A parachute doesn't directly affect the weight of the skydiver. Weight is the force with which an object is pulled toward the center of the Earth, and it remains constant regardless of whether the parachute is open or not.
b) speed: Although a parachute does affect the speed of the skydiver, it doesn't directly cause the decrease in speed. The speed of a skydiver is primarily determined by their mass and the forces acting on them, such as gravity and air resistance. Once the parachute is open, it counteracts the force of gravity and creates additional air resistance, which ultimately leads to a decrease in speed.
c) surface area: This is the correct answer. When a parachute is open, it creates a significantly larger surface area compared to when it is closed. The increased surface area allows the parachute to catch more air molecules as the skydiver falls through the atmosphere. As a result, more air molecules collide with the parachute, generating a greater upward force known as air resistance or drag. This increased drag opposes the force of gravity, and this is what ultimately slows down the skydiver's descent.
d) mass: The mass of the skydiver affects their acceleration under the force of gravity but doesn't directly influence how a parachute functions. A heavier skydiver would experience a greater gravitational force, leading to a higher acceleration, but the role of the parachute remains the same, regardless of the skydiver's mass.
So, to sum up, a parachute slows down a skydiver primarily by creating a larger surface area, which increases air resistance and counteracts the force of gravity.