D
Below is a question with multiple-choice answers. Choose the correct option based on your reasoning.

### Question:
How does a parachute sufficiently increase air resistance to allow the parachutist to land safely?

### Choices:
A. by decreasing the force of gravity acting on the parachutist
B. by decreasing the total mass of the parachutist
C. by increasing the surrounding air pressure around the parachute
D. by increasing the total surface area of the parachute

### Answer:
