A 500-N parachutist opens his chute and experiences an air resistance force of 800 N.The net force on the parachutist is
A)300 N downward.
B)500 N downward.
C)800 N downward.
D)300 N upward.
E)500 N upward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. In this case, the forces acting on the parachutist are the force of gravity acting downward (500 N) and the air resistance force acting upward (800 N). The net force can be found by subtracting the upward force from the downward force:

Net force = 500 N - 800 N = -300 N

Since the net force is negative, it means that the force is acting in the opposite direction of the parachutist's motion (downward). Therefore, the choice letter D, 300 N upward, is incorrect.

The correct choice is D, 300 N upward, because the net force of -300 N means that there is a force of 300 N acting upward to counteract the downward force of gravity, slowing the parachutist's fall.

A 500-N Parachutist Opens His Chute and Experiences an Air