When the spacecraft falls back to earth, a parachute helps it fall safely. Explain the forces acting during this landing.
A The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.
B The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s upward force.
C The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s downward force.
D The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s upward force
A The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.
The correct answer is A) The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.
When a spacecraft falls back to Earth and uses a parachute for landing, the parachute generates an upward force that opposes gravity's downward force. This upward force helps to slow down the spacecraft's descent and allows it to land more safely. By resisting gravity's force pulling the spacecraft downward, the parachute effectively counteracts the effects of gravity, preventing a sudden and potentially dangerous impact upon landing.
The correct answer is A) The parachute’s upward force resists gravity's downward force.
When a spacecraft falls back to Earth, a parachute is used to slow down its descent and allow for a safer landing. This is achieved by the principle of aerodynamic drag.
As the parachute opens, it creates a large surface area that interacts with the surrounding air. As the spacecraft descends, the air molecules push against the surface of the parachute, creating an upward force known as aerodynamic lift or the drag force. This force opposes gravity's downward force, effectively reducing the speed at which the spacecraft falls.
Therefore, the parachute's upward force counters the downward force of gravity, allowing the spacecraft to descend at a slower rate and land safely.