Parachute Equations: Calculate Rate of Descent

Thread starter WaterMelllon3
Start date Nov 11, 2013
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Parachute

In summary, the rate of descent for a parachute is determined by the drag equation and the terminal velocity equation. Air resistance, or drag, increases as the parachute falls until it reaches terminal velocity, which is the point at which it falls at a constant rate. Factors such as the size and shape of the parachute, the weight and mass of the object attached, and air density and pressure can affect the rate of descent. This rate can also be manipulated by changing these factors as well as altitude and using techniques like a drogue parachute. However, the equations used to calculate the rate of descent may not be entirely accurate as they do not consider external factors like wind speed and direction. They should be used as a guide rather than an exact measurement.

Nov 11, 2013

WaterMelllon3

Can anyone give me some formulas for calculating the rate of decent of a parachute and other formulas used for parachtes?

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Nov 12, 2013

CWatters

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http://my.execpc.com/~culp/rockets/descent.html

Last edited by a moderator: May 6, 2017

Related to Parachute Equations: Calculate Rate of Descent

1. What are the basic equations used to calculate the rate of descent for a parachute?

The two equations used to calculate the rate of descent for a parachute are the drag equation and the terminal velocity equation.

2. How does air resistance affect the rate of descent for a parachute?

Air resistance, also known as drag, is a force that opposes the motion of the parachute. As the parachute falls, air resistance increases until it is equal to the force of gravity. This is known as terminal velocity and it is the point at which the parachute stops accelerating and falls at a constant rate.

3. What factors determine the rate of descent for a parachute?

The rate of descent for a parachute is determined by several factors including the size and shape of the parachute, the weight and mass of the object attached to the parachute, and the air density and pressure.

4. How can the rate of descent for a parachute be manipulated?

The rate of descent for a parachute can be manipulated by changing the size, shape, and weight of the parachute, as well as the altitude and air density at which it is deployed. Additionally, certain techniques such as using a drogue parachute can also slow down the rate of descent.

5. Are there any limitations to the equations used to calculate the rate of descent for a parachute?

The equations used to calculate the rate of descent for a parachute are based on certain assumptions and may not accurately represent real-life scenarios. For example, they do not take into account factors such as wind speed and direction, which can significantly affect the rate of descent. Therefore, these equations should be used as a guide and not as an exact measurement.