Parachutes

What is a parachute for?

Parachutes use the force of drag (air resistance) to slow down the descent of an object (or human!) against gravity.

There are 2 keys to a good parachute.

Large surface area compared to the size of the load
Shape of the canopy

Main PARACHUTE TYPES:

Round Parachutes

Round parachutes were the original tool of descent. This shape is excellent for air resistance, but can be very wobbly. That is the reason for the hole in the top of the canopy. It stabilizes the parachute. Unfortunately, these parachutes are still quite unsteerable, and aren’t used much anymore.

Airfoil/Ram-Air Parachutes

Airfoil shaped parachutes (ram-air) are the most common modern parachute, because they are steerable! The rectangular shape makes them less wobbly. There are actually two layers attached together, that inflate to create a wing-like shape when moving. We know that wings = lift and steering, which ensures a nice, controlled descent.

Surprise! It's a Challenge Project!

PARTS OF A PARACHUTE

Note:

The lines can also be called suspension lines or shroud lines.

The container can also be called the load.

Note:

In round parachutes, the hole in the top (that stabilizes it) can be called the apex vent.

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