SUMMARY
The mechanical energy of the parachuter-parachute-Earth system is not conserved due to the presence of air resistance. When a parachutist jumps, kinetic energy is generated as gravitational potential energy decreases; however, air drag transforms a significant portion of this kinetic energy into thermal energy, resulting in a net decrease in mechanical energy. In a vacuum, where no dissipative forces exist, mechanical energy would remain constant. Thus, the interaction between the parachutist and the atmosphere is crucial in understanding energy transformations during free fall.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of gravitational potential energy (GPE)
- Knowledge of kinetic energy (KE) principles
- Familiarity with the concept of air resistance and drag forces
- Basic thermodynamics, particularly energy transformation
NEXT STEPS
- Research the principles of energy conservation in physics
- Study the effects of air resistance on falling objects
- Explore thermal energy generation in fluid dynamics
- Learn about gravitational potential energy and its calculations
USEFUL FOR
Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the dynamics of free fall and energy transformations in systems involving air resistance.