A performer lands on an inflatable safety airbag. The performer is moving vertically downwards before contact with the airbag and comes to rest while in contact with it.
| Quantity | Value |
|---|---|
| speed just before contact | 8.0 m/s |
| stopping time while in contact with the airbag | 0.50 s |
Calculate the magnitude of the performer's deceleration while in contact with the airbag.
Explain why the airbag can reduce pressure on the performer's head and chest as the performer comes to rest.