A Soyuz re-entry capsule just after the parachute has been released
Lysbilde: 4
A Soyuz re-entry capsule at rest on the ground
Lysbilde: 5
Thrust
Weight
Drag
The Soyuz orbital module is in orbit. Even though it's speed may be constant it's velocity is changing as it changing direction. Forces are unbalanced. The only force acting on the module is its weight.
Lysbilde: 6
Weight
The Soyuz orbital module is in orbit. Even though it's speed may be constant it's velocity is changing as it changing direction. Forces are unbalanced. The only force acting on the module is its weight.
Lysbilde: 7
Drag
Weight
The capsule is decelerating so the forces aren't balanced. The drag from the parachute must be larger than the weight of the parachute and the capsule.
Lysbilde: 8
Weight
Reaction force
The forces are balanced, as the capsule is not moving. The reaction force acting on the capsule from the ground is equal and opposite to the weight of the capsule.