Parachutes: a crossroads between physics, mathematics and computing

Abstract

In this article, physical quantities related to the motion of a parachute system in the framework of Newton’s law of mechanics guide an informal approach to the mathematical concept of function. Furthermore, a graphical simulator that enables visualization of the fall of object-parachutes system is presented. The article is aimed at students and teachers of basic physics courses at the high school and undergraduate level.

Understanding the physics of world's fastest non-motorized sport

“…Mathematically it is when the second term in the parenthesis vanishes, meaning when y → ∞. In [1] the terminal speed is calculated directly from equilibrium, i.e. when drag and gravity pull are equal.…”