How is an aerodynamic stall defined in relation to a ram-air canopy?

An aerodynamic stall in relation to a ram-air canopy is defined as a stable state of decreased glide and increased rate of descent. This phenomenon occurs when the airflow over the canopy becomes insufficient to maintain lift, resulting in a situation where the descent rate increases while the forward glide distance decreases.

When a ram-air canopy approaches the stall condition, it will not be able to produce the necessary lift for stable flight, causing the parachutist to descend more rapidly. This shift in performance typically manifests as a dramatic increase in the descent rate and a loss in the effectiveness of the glide ratio, thus creating the stable state referred to in this definition. Understanding this condition is crucial for skydivers to effectively manage their canopy's performance and ensure safe landings.

The other contexts, such as temporary loss of control or loss of altitude without a stall, do not accurately capture the essential characteristics of a stall itself. A stall specifically pertains to aerodynamic performance and the relationship between lift and drag, making the correct choice distinctly focused on that critical aspect.