Here's a problem to solve: How does a parachute sufficiently increase air resistance to allow the parachutist to land safely?

Among the 4 following options, which is the correct answer?

- 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
 