The spacecraft shown below weighs 6.1 million pounds. The rocket produces 7.5 million pounds of thrust. 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 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. The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s upward force. The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s downward force. The parachute’s downward force resists gravity’s downward force.

Answer 1

The correct response is: "The parachute’s upward force resists gravity’s downward force."

During the landing of the spacecraft, two primary forces are acting on it:

1. Gravity: This force pulls the spacecraft downward towards the Earth.
2. Air resistance (drag) created by the parachute: When deployed, the parachute increases air resistance, generating an upward force that opposes the force of gravity.

The parachute's upward force helps to slow down the descent of the spacecraft, allowing for a safer landing.