A large and a small person wish to parachute at equal terminal velocities. The large person should
A)jump first.
B)jump lightly.
C)pull upward on the supporting strands to decrease the downward net force.
D)get a larger parachute.
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The terminal velocity depends on air resistance and weight. The larger person will experience a greater gravitational force, and since air resistance is proportional to surface area, the larger person will fall faster. Therefore, a larger parachute will provide more air resistance and allow the larger person to reach the same terminal velocity as the smaller person.

A Large and a Small Person Wish to Parachute at Equal