Draw a graph depicting a skydivers speed against time when jumping from a plane, until he deploys his parachute, explaining the logic of your answer through the forces applicable to the body.

Upon jumping from the plane, the diver experiences three forces; a downward force from his weight; opposed by a lift force (equal to the weight of the air he displaces); and an upward drag force = ½ . (CD.(RHO).V2.A).
Initially the largest force is the wight of the jumper, leading an increase in downward velocity due to newtons second law, however as can be seen from the drag equation, this increase in velocity will lead to a larger increase in drag force, slowing the divers acceleration, until the downward forces = the up. At this point the diver is at his terminal velocity. When he releases his parachute, there is again a massive increase in the drag force due to the larger frontal area (A), thereby decelerating the diver until he again reaches a new, reduced, terminal velocity.

BR
Answered by Bronagh R. Physics tutor

2115 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Draw the circuit that could be used to investigate how the current through a filament lamp affects its resistance. How could it be used to investigate this? (6 marks)


Why do you weigh less on the Moon than on Earth?


Discuss how X-rays and Ultrasound can be used for medical purposes, including their advantages and disadvantages.


A transformer has an input voltage of 4V, an output voltage of 8V and 50 turns on its primary coil. Assuming 100% efficiency, find the number of turns on the secondary coil.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences