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| | MSN Encarta - Parachute |
 | | So-called shroud lines are sewn into the seams between the panels, passing over the top of the canopy, and are connected at their ends to two metal rings. |
 | | Once the parachute opens, the jumper descends at a rate of about 5.2 m (about 17 ft) per sec and strikes the ground with about the same force as if he or she had jumped freely from 3 m (10 ft). |
 | | During World War II, armies made extensive use of paratroops, or parachute troops, who were often flown behind the enemy lines in transport planes; they were usually landed from low altitudes and their parachutes were arranged to open automatically, as the soldiers jumped, by means of long straps attached to the carrying plane. |
| encarta.msn.com /encyclopedia_761563600/Parachute.html (588 words) |
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