How does a parachute work?

A parachute slows a fall by harnessing air resistance, also called drag. When a person jumps from a plane, gravity accelerates them until the upward force of air resistance balances their weight, reaching a terminal velocity of around 190 kilometres per hour in a belly-down position. Opening a parachute deploys a large canopy that vastly increases the surface area meeting the air, greatly boosting drag. This sudden increase in resistance slows the descent to a gentle speed, often around 20 kilometres per hour, safe enough to land. The canopy is usually domed or ram-air shaped to trap and channel air, and modern sport parachutes can even be steered like a wing to glide and control landing. A small pilot chute is often released first to pull out the main canopy. Parachutes are essential for skydiving, military operations, and slowing spacecraft and cargo.