A parachutist jumping from an airplane reaches a terminal velocity when the force of air resistance is 980 N. The mass of the parachutist is
A) 220 lb.
B) 980 lb.
C) 980 kg.
D) 100 lb.
E) 100 kg.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The terminal velocity is the maximum velocity at which the force of air resistance equals the force of gravity. The force of air resistance is given as 980 N. The force of gravity is equal to the mass multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity, which is 9.8 m/s^2. Therefore, 980 N = m * 9.8 m/s^2. Solving for m, we get m = 100 kg.

A Parachutist Jumping from an Airplane Reaches a Terminal Velocity