Final answer:
The pressure of the gas inside a hot-air balloon is less than the pressure of the atmosphere outside. A parachute can open to release excess pressure, and a squat switch on touchdown can open the balloon's envelope or fabric panels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physics: Gas Pressure and Outside Pressure
In the context of a hot-air balloon, the pressure of the gas inside the balloon is less than the pressure of the atmosphere outside the balloon.
When the pressure outside the balloon exceeds the pressure inside, a parachute can open to release the excess pressure and stabilize the balloon.
Additionally, a squat switch can activate upon touchdown, causing the balloon's envelope or fabric panels to open and release the pressure.