The spacecraft shown below weighs 6.1 million pounds. The rocket produces 7.5 million pounds of thrust.

Question

When the spacecraft falls back to earth, a parachute helps it fall safely. Explain the forces acting during this landing.

(1 point)
Responses

The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s downward force.
The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s downward force.

The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.
The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.

The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s upward force.
The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s upward force.

The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s upward force.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force.

During the landing of the spacecraft, the forces acting on it include the force of gravity, which pulls it downward, and the force generated by the parachute, which generates lift or drag upward. The upward force from the parachute works against the downward gravitational force, helping to slow the descent of the spacecraft and ensure a safe landing.