Question

Which of the following descriptions best characterizes the motion of the parachutist between t = 0 and t = 20 seconds?

A. Constant velocity descent without any change in speed.
B. Rapid acceleration followed by constant velocity.
C. Acceleration at first, then a constant speed descent.
D. Immediate acceleration to maximum terminal velocity.

Answer 1

The motion of the parachutist between t = 0 and t = 20 seconds can be characterized as a constant velocity descent without any change in speed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The motion of the parachutist between t = 0 and t = 20 seconds can be characterized as follows:

Initially, the parachutist experiences acceleration due to gravity, causing the speed to increase. This acceleration is represented by a positive slope on a velocity vs. time graph. However, as the parachutist continues to descend, it eventually reaches a point where the force of gravity is balanced by the force of air resistance, resulting in a constant velocity descent without any change in speed. This is represented by a flat line on the velocity vs. time graph.

Therefore, the correct description is option A. Constant velocity descent without any change in speed.