## Why Skydivers Use Decimals Worksheet
Skydiving is an extreme sport that involves jumping out of an airplane and freefalling for a period of time before opening a parachute. During freefall, skydivers experience a variety of forces, including gravity, air resistance, and lift. These forces can cause skydivers to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction.
In order to safely navigate through the air, skydivers need to be able to accurately measure their altitude, speed, and distance from the ground. They also need to be able to communicate with each other and with the ground crew. Decimals are a useful tool for skydivers because they allow them to make precise measurements and communicate effectively.
### Measuring Altitude
Skydivers measure their altitude using an altimeter, which is a device that measures the air pressure. As the skydiver descends, the air pressure increases, which causes the altimeter to read a higher altitude. Skydivers use decimals to measure altitude because it allows them to make precise measurements. For example, a skydiver who is at an altitude of 10,000 feet might read their altimeter as 10,000.0 feet. This allows the skydiver to know their exact altitude and to make decisions about when to open their parachute.
### Measuring Speed
Skydivers measure their speed using an airspeed indicator, which is a device that measures the airspeed of the skydiver. Airspeed is measured in knots, which are nautical miles per hour. Skydivers use decimals to measure speed because it allows them to make precise measurements. For example, a skydiver who is traveling at a speed of 120 knots might read their airspeed indicator as 120.0 knots. This allows the skydiver to know their exact speed and to make decisions about how to navigate through the air.
### Measuring Distance
Skydivers measure their distance from the ground using a GPS device, which is a device that uses satellites to determine the location of the skydiver. GPS devices measure distance in meters, which are units of length. Skydivers use decimals to measure distance because it allows them to make precise measurements. For example, a skydiver who is 100 meters from the ground might read their GPS device as 100.0 meters. This allows the skydiver to know their exact distance from the ground and to make decisions about when to land.
### Communicating with Each Other
Skydivers use decimals to communicate with each other and with the ground crew. For example, a skydiver who is at an altitude of 10,000 feet might say “I’m at ten thousand feet.” A skydiver who is traveling at a speed of 120 knots might say “I’m traveling at one hundred twenty knots.” A skydiver who is 100 meters from the ground might say “I’m one hundred meters from the ground.” Decimals allow skydivers to communicate precisely and to avoid confusion.
### Conclusion
Decimals are a useful tool for skydivers because they allow them to make precise measurements and communicate effectively. Skydivers use decimals to measure altitude, speed, distance, and to communicate with each other and with the ground crew. By using decimals, skydivers can safely navigate through the air and enjoy the thrill of skydiving.