8 explain what is happening to a persons energy when they go skydiving. be sure to explain what happens to…

8 explain what is happening to a persons energy when they go skydiving. be sure to explain what happens to the persons energy 1) when they go up in the plane, 2) when they jump from the plane, and 3) when the parachute opens.

8 explain what is happening to a persons energy when they go skydiving. be sure to explain what happens to the persons energy 1) when they go up in the plane, 2) when they jump from the plane, and 3) when the parachute opens.

Answer

Answer:

  1. When ascending in the plane: Gravitational potential energy increases, with chemical energy from the plane's fuel being converted to this potential energy.
  2. When jumping from the plane: Gravitational potential energy converts to kinetic energy and thermal energy (from air resistance).
  3. When the parachute opens: Kinetic energy rapidly converts to thermal energy and sound energy (from air resistance against the parachute), slowing the diver down.

Brief Explanations:

  • Ascent: As the plane climbs, the person's height above the ground increases, so their gravitational potential energy ($E_p = mgh$, where $m$ = mass, $g$ = gravitational acceleration, $h$ = height) rises. This energy comes from the plane's fuel, which is converted to mechanical energy to lift the plane and passenger.
  • Free fall: Once jumping, the person loses height, so potential energy decreases. Most of this energy is converted to kinetic energy (energy of motion, $E_k = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$) as speed increases. A small portion is lost to thermal energy via friction with air molecules.
  • Parachute deployment: The large parachute creates high air resistance. This quickly dissipates the person's kinetic energy: most is converted to thermal energy from air friction, and a small amount to sound energy from the parachute opening. The reduction in kinetic energy slows the diver to a safe descent speed, with potential energy now decreasing gradually and being lost to air resistance rather than converting to kinetic energy.