Parachute (disambiguation) facts for kids
A parachute is a special device made of fabric that helps slow down how fast something falls through the air. It's often used to help people or objects land safely from high up, like from an airplane. Think of it like a giant umbrella that catches the air!
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Parachute: A Device for Safe Landings
A parachute is designed to create a lot of air resistance. This resistance pushes against the parachute, slowing down the fall. It allows people to jump from planes and land gently, or helps drop supplies safely to the ground.
How a Parachute Works
When a parachute opens, its large surface area catches the air. This creates a force called "drag" that works against gravity. The bigger the parachute, the more drag it creates, and the slower the fall. Parachutes are usually made from strong, lightweight fabrics like nylon. They are carefully folded into a pack that can be opened quickly when needed.
History of Parachutes
People have dreamed of flying and landing safely for centuries. Early ideas for parachute-like devices date back to the 15th century, with drawings by Leonardo da Vinci. However, the first successful parachute jump from a hot air balloon was made in 1797 by André-Jacques Garnerin. Parachutes became very important during World War I and World War II for pilots and soldiers. Today, they are used for fun activities like skydiving, and for safety in aviation.
Types and Uses of Parachutes
There are different kinds of parachutes for various uses.
- Round parachutes are the oldest type and look like a dome when open. They are often used for military jumps or dropping cargo.
- Ram-air parachutes are rectangular and look more like wings. These are popular for skydiving because they allow skydivers to steer and glide through the air before landing.
- Reserve parachutes are backup parachutes that skydivers carry for safety, in case their main parachute doesn't work.
Parachutes are not just for people! They are also used to:
- Slow down spacecraft as they return to Earth.
- Deliver emergency supplies to hard-to-reach places.
- Help race cars slow down after reaching very high speeds.
Other Meanings of "Parachute"
The word "parachute" can also refer to other things:
- A town called Parachute, Colorado in the United States.
- Parachute pants are a type of baggy trousers that became popular in the 1980s.
- A Parachute candidate is a term for a politician who is brought into an area to run for office, even if they don't live there.
- A Parachute flare is a type of flare that uses a small parachute to stay in the air longer, often used for signaling.
See also
In Spanish: Parachute para niños
