How is friction useful in parachuting?

Answer:
  • The more friction you have the more grip your parachute has in the air. This is most apparent in the type of fabric used in the construction of parachutes. There are 2 basic types - F111 (which is porous) and Zero Porosity (which is a lacquered material). Zero Porosity or ZP type parachutes tend to fly faster through the air.
  • In swooping competition parachutes, the thinner the suspension lines, the faster you can fly also. This has is directly related to friction, drag and overall weight.
  • Parachuting discusses an open parachute. Skydiving is the element where you are free falling with a packed parachute on your back. Most skydivers wear a full-body jumpsuit. The rougher the material, the slower you fall. Often in the case of larger heavier skydivers, their suits are made of cordura to slow them down. Ripstop nylon is used for lighter weight skydivers.
First answer by FallingSkyMan. Last edit by FallingSkyMan. Contributor trust: 6 [recommend contributor recommended]. Question popularity: 0 [recommend question].