## How Fast Does a Skydiver Travel in Free Fall?
Skydiving is an exhilarating sport that involves jumping out of an aircraft and freefalling towards the ground. The speed at which a skydiver travels during freefall depends on several factors, including their body position, the altitude from which they jump, and the air density.
### Body Position
The body position of the skydiver significantly affects their speed during freefall. There are three main body positions:
– Belly-to-earth: This is the most common body position for skydivers. It provides the best stability and control, allowing skydivers to reach speeds of up to 120 mph (193 km/h).
– Head-down: In this position, the skydiver falls headfirst with their arms and legs extended. This position allows for faster speeds, up to 150 mph (241 km/h).
– Tracking: This position involves the skydiver falling sideways with their body parallel to the ground. It is used for advanced maneuvers and allows for speeds of up to 180 mph (290 km/h).
### Altitude
The altitude from which a skydiver jumps also affects their speed during freefall. The higher the altitude, the longer the skydiver will spend in freefall and the higher their terminal velocity will be.
– 10,000 feet (3,048 meters): At this altitude, a skydiver in a belly-to-earth position can reach speeds of up to 120 mph (193 km/h).
– 15,000 feet (4,572 meters): At this altitude, a skydiver can reach speeds of up to 140 mph (225 km/h).
– 20,000 feet (6,096 meters): At this altitude, a skydiver can reach speeds of up to 160 mph (257 km/h).
### Air Density
The air density also plays a role in determining the speed of a skydiver during freefall. Air density decreases with altitude, which means that the higher a skydiver jumps, the less resistance they will experience from the air. This results in higher speeds.
Factors that Affect Air Density:
– Temperature: Warmer air is less dense than cold air.
– Pressure: Higher pressure results in increased air density.
– Altitude: Air density decreases as altitude increases.
### Terminal Velocity
Terminal velocity is the maximum speed at which a skydiver can fall. It is reached when the force of gravity acting on the skydiver is balanced by the force of air resistance.
The terminal velocity of a skydiver depends on their body position, altitude, and air density. Generally, a skydiver in a belly-to-earth position will reach terminal velocity within 10-15 seconds of freefall.
Terminal Velocities:
– Belly-to-earth: 120-130 mph (193-209 km/h)
– Head-down: 150-160 mph (241-257 km/h)
– Tracking: 180-200 mph (290-322 km/h)
It is important to note that these speeds are averages, and individual skydivers may experience slightly different values based on their specific body weight, shape, and equipment.