Is it possible to find the answer?

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In summary, the question asks how long it would take to reach the other side of the Earth if someone were to dig a hole through it and jump in. The distance from top to bottom of the Earth is 4000 miles and gravitational acceleration can be used to calculate the time it would take. However, once in the middle of the Earth, there would be no acceleration but still velocity. This can be calculated using the formula g'=GMr/R^3, where r is the distance from the center of the Earth, R is Earth's radius, and M is Earth's mass. Ultimately, it is similar to a simple harmonic oscillation.
  • #1
phys1618
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Homework Statement



if you dig a hole through earth, all the way through so you can see the other side is space. and you decided to jump into it. How long does it take for you to get to the other sisde of earth?

Homework Equations


the distance from top to bottom of Earth is 4000mi.


The Attempt at a Solution


I know that once you jump into the earth, gravity which is 9.8m/s will pull you down quickly. However, once you are directly in the middle of earth, you would stop accelerating. so is it possible to figure the answer? thank you for all help and inputs.
 
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  • #2
Yes, it is.
In the middle of earth, no acceleration, but we still have velocity.
You can use gravitational acceleration inside of earth:
[TAB]g'=GMr/R^3
where r is distance from center of earth, R is Earth's radius, and M is Earth's mass.
It's just like a simple harmonic oscillation.
 
  • #3


I cannot provide a definitive answer to this question. It is a hypothetical scenario and there are many variables and unknown factors that could affect the outcome. However, based on the information given, we can make some assumptions and estimations.

Firstly, the distance from the top to the bottom of the Earth is not 4000 miles, it is approximately 8000 miles. Also, the force of gravity would not be a constant 9.8m/s, as it depends on the distance from the center of the Earth. As you get closer to the center, the force of gravity would decrease.

Assuming that the hole is perfectly straight and has no air resistance, it would take approximately 42 minutes and 12 seconds to reach the other side of the Earth. This calculation is based on the average density of the Earth and the assumption that the force of gravity decreases linearly with distance. However, this is just an estimation and there are many other factors that could affect the time it takes to reach the other side, such as air resistance, variations in the Earth's density, and the Coriolis effect.

In conclusion, while it is possible to make an estimation of the time it would take to reach the other side of the Earth in this scenario, it is not possible to provide a definitive answer without further information and calculations.
 

1. Is it possible to find the answer to any question?

Yes, it is possible to find the answer to any question through scientific research and experimentation. However, the answer may not always be readily available or easily accessible.

2. How do scientists go about finding the answer to a question?

Scientists use the scientific method, which involves asking a question, conducting research, making a hypothesis, performing experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. This process allows for a systematic approach to finding answers and ensures that results are reliable and replicable.

3. Are all answers found by scientists considered to be absolute truths?

No, the answers found by scientists are based on current knowledge and evidence. As new research and discoveries are made, these answers may be updated or changed. Science is an ongoing process of learning and refining our understanding of the world.

4. Can scientists find the answer to every question?

No, there are some questions that may not have a definitive answer, or the technology and resources may not be available to find the answer at this time. Additionally, some questions may fall outside the realm of scientific inquiry.

5. How can I determine if the answer I found is reliable?

To determine the reliability of an answer, it is important to consider the source and the scientific evidence supporting it. Peer-reviewed studies and reputable sources are generally more reliable than personal opinions or untested claims. It is also important to evaluate the methodology and potential biases in the research process.

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