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How Does Parachute Material Affect Speed?

CSEF · 2009 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics (Junior Division Only)

Isabelle L.P. Swing · Southside School, Hollister, San Benito County

Overview

Objectives/Goals My obhjective was to determine which parachute made from a common household material would have the closest drop speed to a zero porosity, real parachute material. Methods/Materials Five parachutes were made of identical size and shape. The first was made of 0 porosity material similar to a real parachute, one was of newspaper, one plastic, one from a t-shirt, and one from a pillowcase. Each was dropped from 10 feet, 5 trials each. The drop was timed from when it was released to when it hit the ground. Using the distance and the average time in the velocity formula, I determined the speed per second. Results The plastic bag parachute had the closest drop time to the control. the newspaper and pillowcase parachutes were the next closest, leaving the t-shirt parachute with the largest difference of seconds per foot to the control. Conclusions/Discussion I concluded the plastic bags probably have 0 porosity like the control parachute. It is important to know the porosity of a parachute material because it affects its drop speed.

Summary statement

My project determined which parachute made from household materials would have the closest drop speed to a real parachute.

Help received

Mother, Susan Swing, helped edit the report. Grandpa, Howard Swing, helped design and assemble the parachute hanger. Southside School, Dr. Forbush, reviewed project and made recommendations.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2009 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics (Junior Division Only) · Entry J0130

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