Question

How does a skydiver achieve terminal velocity?

Answer 1

First to write the solution we have to know the definition of terminal velocity. Speed skydiving is a skydiving competition in which the goal is achieved and maintained by the heisted possible terminal velocity. Using this concept we can write the solution of this problem.

Complete answer:
Terminal velocity: It is defined as the highest velocity which an object can reach as it falls through a fluid. In this case the air acts as a fluid.We know that the sum of drag forces and the buoyancy force due to the air which is a fluid is directly proportional to the downward force that is the force due to gravity that is acting on the skydiver.

Hence the net force that is acting on the skydiver is equal to zero and due to which the resultant acceleration is also zero. From the above discussion we can say that the skydiver can reach the terminal velocity by falling freely under the acceleration due to gravity through the air which acts as fluid in this case.

Note: Remember that in a stable belly to earth position the terminal velocity of the skydiver will be about $200\,km{h^{ - 1}}$ or we can say $120\,mph$. Also keep in mind that when a skydiver is falling freely head down position the terminal speed will be in between $240 - 290\,km{h^{ - 1}}$. Another important point to remember is that as the skydiver gains speed their weight stays the same but the air resistance increases.