Parachutes and Terminal Velocity:

    A jump can be represented by graphs showing velocity versus time, and acceleration versus time. Initially the velocity is Zero but becomes more negative (because it is downward) until a terminal velocity is reached. As terminal velocity is reached, the change in velocity in a given amount of time grows smaller and smaller. After the ripcord is pulled and the parachute opens, the velocity becomes less negative but still remains negative. After a brief moment, the velocity again approaches its terminal point and stays that way until the ground is hit and the velocity becomes zero.

    The graph of acceleration versus time is also interesting. Initially, the only force acting on a parachute is gravity, which has a downward pull. This is a negative force and provides negative acceleration (deceleration), but as the net force becomes smaller, the acceleration grows smaller. At terminal velocity, the acceleration equals zero. After the chute opens, a net upward force causes a positive acceleration which initially is great and then becomes small. A terminal velocity is again reached and the acceleration reaches zero again. Finally, the ground causes a large upward force and up ward acceleration which stops the parachutist. What forces would you experience in a parachute jump?