## How Long Does it Take to Fall When You Skydive?
Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that involves jumping out of an airplane and freefalling towards the ground. The duration of the freefall portion varies depending on several factors, including the altitude from which you jump and your body position.
### Factors Affecting Freefall Duration
1. Altitude:
The altitude from which you jump directly affects the length of your freefall. Higher altitudes provide more time for freefalling. Common skydiving altitudes range from 10,000 to 14,000 feet.
2. Body Position:
During freefall, your body position can impact the rate at which you fall. A streamlined position (head down, arms and legs extended) increases your vertical speed, while a flat position (spread out like a star) slows down your descent.
### Freefall Durations at Different Altitudes
The following table provides approximate freefall durations at various altitudes:
| Altitude (feet) | Freefall Time (seconds) |
|—|—|
| 10,000 | 30-45 |
| 12,000 | 40-55 |
| 14,000 | 50-70 |
### Duration Variations
1. Body Mass:
Individuals with higher body mass experience greater air resistance, which can slightly shorten their freefall durations compared to lighter individuals.
2. Wind Conditions:
Strong winds can affect freefall speed. Tailwinds (winds blowing in the same direction as your descent) can increase your vertical velocity, while headwinds (winds blowing opposite to your descent) can slow you down.
### Parachute Deployment
After a predetermined period of freefall, the skydiver deploys their parachute. The deployment altitude is typically between 4,000 and 6,000 feet. Once the parachute is deployed, the descent becomes significantly slower, allowing the skydiver to glide and land safely.
### Additional Information
– Average Freefall Time: For most skydivers, the average freefall time is around 45 seconds.
– Freefall Speed: During freefall, the human body reaches terminal velocity of approximately 120 miles per hour (193 kilometers per hour).
– Minimum Freefall Altitude: Most skydiving regulations require a minimum freefall altitude of 2,000 feet to ensure sufficient time for parachute deployment.
### Conclusion
The duration of a skydive’s freefall depends primarily on the altitude from which you jump and your body position. For typical skydiving altitudes, freefall lasts between 30 and 70 seconds, providing an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.