Question

Some runners train with parachutes that trail behind them to provide a large drag force. These parachutes are designed to have a large drag coefficient. One model expands to a square 1.8 m on a side, with a drag coefficient of 1.4. A runner completes a 200 m run at 5.0 m/s with this chute trailing behind. Part A How much thermal energy is added to the air by the drag force

Answer 1

13.9 kJ

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that

Length of the side, l = 1.8 m

Drag coefficient, C(d) = 1.4

Distance of run, d = 200 m

Velocity of run, v = 5 m/s

Density, ρ = 1.23

Using the Aerodynamics Drag Force formula. We have

F(d) = 1/2.ρ.A.C(d).v²

The Area, A needed is 1.8 * 1.8 = 3.24 m². So that,

F(d) = 1/2 * 1.23 * 3.24 * 1.4 * 5²

F(d) = 139.482/2

F(d) = 69.74

recall that, energy =

W = F * d

W = 69.74 * 200

W= 13948

W = 13.9kJ

Therefore, the thermal energy added to the air by the drag force is 13.9kJ