The word "parachutes" is spelled with two syllables that are both emphasized. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by the "r" sound, represented in the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈpærəʃut/. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "u" sound followed by the "t" sound, represented as /tuːz/. Together, the word is pronounced /ˈpærəʃuttuːz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This spelling accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word "parachutes" in English.
Parachutes are lifesaving devices designed to slow down the descent of an object or person through the air by creating drag and increasing air resistance. They consist of a large, usually canopied, fabric sheet that is connected to the user or the object being dropped and is supported by a system of suspension lines. When deployed, parachutes inflate and open up in the air, acting as a makeshift airbrake that reduces the speed of descent.
The primary purpose of parachutes is to allow for controlled and safe descent from great heights or when exiting a rapidly moving vehicle such as an aircraft. Parachutes are commonly used in various applications, including military operations, recreational skydiving, and emergency situations for pilots or astronauts in distress.
Parachutes work on the principle of air resistance. As the parachute opens and fills with air, it creates a large surface area, which increases the drag or the force that opposes the motion, consequently slowing down the object's freefall velocity. By adjusting the shape, size, and design of the parachute, its speed of descent can be controlled to ensure a safe landing.
Parachutes can come in different types, such as round parachutes, which are simpler in structure and provide a gentler descent, or ram-air parachutes, which are more maneuverable and offer greater control during the descent. The design and materials used in modern parachutes have evolved over time, taking into account factors such as strength, weight, and durability.
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The word "parachute" has its origins in the French language. It is a combination of the French words "para-" meaning "defense against" or "protection from", and "chute" meaning "fall". The term was coined in the late 18th century to refer to a device used for protecting individuals or cargo during free falls. The word "parachute" was later adopted into the English language due to the early development and usage of the device by French inventors such as Louis-Sébastien Lenormand.