Terminal Velocity of 100kg Parachutist Falling from 3000m

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a 100kg parachutist falling from an altitude of 3000m, experiencing forces due to gravity and air resistance. The parachutist falls freely for 30 seconds before the parachute opens, with different air resistance constants before and after the chute opens.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the terminal velocity after the parachute opens, expressing uncertainty about their understanding of the concept and calculations involved.

Discussion Status

Some participants affirm the original poster's understanding of terminal velocity and confirm the calculations presented. However, there is a request for further clarification on the accuracy of the calculations, indicating ongoing exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes a focus on the definitions and implications of terminal velocity, as well as the conditions under which it is reached, particularly in relation to the parachutist's fall and the opening of the parachute.

bobey
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Homework Statement



A parachutist whose mass is 100kg drops from rest to an altitude of 3000m and falls under of gravity. Assume that the force due to to air resistance is proportional to the velocity of the parachutist , with the proportionality constant k1 = 20kg/s when the chute is closed and k2=100 kg/s when the chute is opened. The chute does not open until after 30s of free fall (9.81 m/s^2)

what is the terminal velocity after the chute opens?

Homework Equations



i found the definition of terminal velocity : The terminal velocity of a falling body occurs during free fall when a falling body experiences zero acceleration...

thus my understanding is this terminal velocity is when f=mg (falling depends on gravity only)



The Attempt at a Solution



==> k2v=mg
v=mg/k2
= 100(9.81)/100 = 9.81 m/s


i think this is wrong... but i don't know where to start... i think my concept on terminal velocity is wrong... can anybody help me... please3
 
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Your understanding is correct. The terminal velocity is the velocity at which the sum of the drag and gravity force equals zero.
 
Filip Larsen said:
Your understanding is correct. The terminal velocity is the velocity at which the sum of the drag and gravity force equals zero.

ok! then, is my understand is reflected by the correct calculations? help me to clarify this thing...
 
Yes, your calculation is also correct.
 
Filip Larsen said:
Yes, your calculation is also correct.

thanx 4 d clarification... rely appreciated it...:smile:
 

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