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Understand the Science behind the Parachute
from: Maxx Sports GuidesParachutes made as part of a science project are fairly easy to understand. However the science behind an actual parachute is a bit more complex.
You need to consider some key factors and exercise a bit of patience if you intend to study parachutes seriously.
They come in different sizes and designs. For a parachute to function in real life, it actually takes accuracy and extra caution, since lives are at risk.
Modern designs have come a long way. Earlier versions were developed by a number of individuals around the world. However, what was considered the first modern parachute was invented in 1783. Several individuals dared to take the leap to test their designs. Some were successful but some lost their lives due to poor designs and setbacks.
Science Behind the Parachute
Earlier types of parachutes were made of fabric and wooden struts, with most of them being shaped like a cone. At first the parachute was only intended for entertainment. However, two years after the modern parachute was invented in 1783 it was used as an escape device. Occupants of hot air balloons used the device to get off the balloons in mid-air.
Later developments led to the use of silk, as well as vented and knapsack parachutes. After successful jumps, the military used parachutes during World Wars I and II. Today they're popular in extreme sports such as skydiving.
Parachute Creates Drag
The main principle behind the parachute is that it slows down a falling object by creating drag or air resistance. When the parachute canopy is deployed air molecules move farther out creating drag. The more drag that's created the slower the object falls.
The drag or air resistance depends on the object's surface area. Parachute canopies have a large surface area which creates enough drag for its passenger.
Shapes and designs also affect the parachute's efficiency. Modern designs have rectangular or tapered shapes. Tapered parachutes, which are used in parachute sports, have more fabric cells to permit greater control and speed. Rectangular ones are used for recreation. They're safer and often used in training programs for students.
Parachutes must be packed correctly for it to deploy properly. If the canopy deploys too quickly it may rip and/or hurt the skydiver. The canopy may get tangled with the lines or not even inflate. The lines may also break. As a result, sliders were added in Ram air parachutes to slow down the opening of the canopy.
Modern designs also have a rip cord that enables the parachute to deploy correctly, and zero porosity technology that prevents air from passing through the nylon fabric.
Design Variations
Variations of the modern design are used in parachute sports. BASE jumpers use a different design compared to those used by paragliders.
Overall the parachute's efficiency will depend on the materials used, the design and how it's packed. Reserve parachutes are also available when the main canopy fails.
Skydivers pack their own parachutes and riggers pack reserve chutes.
You need to be familiar with the science behind parachutes to make certain that you're fully informed about what to expect -- especially when you're free falling at 12,000 feet above the ground.
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