Free Fall Questions Homework: Gravity, Drag, Force & Parachutes

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the physics of gravity, drag, and parachute design as related to free fall scenarios. The gravitational acceleration in Winnipeg is established at 9.81 N/kg, which is consistent with values found globally, making it universally acceptable. The effect of air temperature on drag is confirmed as significant, as warmer air reduces density, thereby decreasing drag. Additionally, the force experienced by a hand out of a car window increases with speed, and the difference in parachute requirements for skydiving football players is highlighted, emphasizing the need for larger parachutes for heavier individuals to ensure safety at terminal velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with concepts of drag and terminal velocity
  • Knowledge of gravitational force calculations
  • Basic principles of aerodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of air density on drag coefficients
  • Explore the physics of terminal velocity in different weight scenarios
  • Learn about parachute design and sizing for varying weights
  • Investigate methods for measuring gravitational acceleration without computers
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of gravity, drag forces, and parachute safety in free fall situations.

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Homework Statement



a. Is the downward acceleration value of gravity in Winnipeg acceptable anywhere on Earth? why or why not? How could you test this theory using common technology (no computers)?

b. Does the temperature of air affect the drag on an object? Why or why not?

c. When you drive a car down the highway at 50 km/hr and stick your hand out the window you experience a force. When you are driving at 100 km/hr and stick your (same) hand out the window the force is greater. Explain this phenomenon and state how much larger you expect the force to be.

d. Two football players go skydiving. Assuming one player was a 130 kg OL and one was a 65 kg WR, should both players use the same style of parachute? Why or why not? Comment on safety issues using the concept of terminal velocity. How much bigger must the bigger chute be? Justify!

Homework Equations


The force of gravity in winnipeg is 9.81 N/kg
 
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and so did you try to answer any of these questions?
 
no, i wasn't sure how.
 

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