Earth's Gravity if the Earth rotated the opposite direction

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential effect of the Earth's rotation on gravity at the equator and north pole. The conclusion is that the rotation does not have an impact on the gravitational force, as it is determined by the mass of the Earth and the object being attracted. The equatorial bulge and rotation direction are not factors in the equation for gravity.
  • #1
rogersjc
3
0
I think this is an interesting question and it happens to be a problem I have to solve. If the Earth rotated about its axis at the same rate it does right now how would that affect the gravity at the equator and the north pole?

I personally do not think it will change it because I believe that the gravity it is function of lattitude size and the rate of rotation.
 
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  • #2
Your question is confusing. If the axis stays the same, gravity is unaffected. The difference between the equator and the pole is a result of the equatorial bulge, resulting from rotation.
 
  • #3
The gravitational force depends only upon the mass of the Earth (and the object being attracted) and has nothing to do with the rotation of the earth. The "net force" on an object, the gravitational force minus the "centrifugal force" depends upon the magnitude of the rotation of the earth, but not the direction.
 
  • #4
So your saying that it doesn't matter what direction the Earth rotates? The magnitude will be the same.
 
  • #5
Yes, If you need convincing the classical equation for gravity makes no mention of rotation.
 

1. How would the direction of Earth's rotation affect its gravity?

If the Earth were to rotate in the opposite direction, the force of gravity would remain the same. Gravity is a result of the Earth's mass and would not be affected by the direction of rotation.

2. Would objects fall in the opposite direction on a reverse rotating Earth?

No, objects would still fall towards the center of the Earth regardless of the direction of rotation. This is because gravity is a downward force, not dependent on the direction of rotation.

3. Would the Earth's shape change if it rotated in the opposite direction?

No, the Earth's shape is determined by its mass and the force of gravity, not the direction of rotation. Therefore, the Earth's shape would remain the same even if it rotated in the opposite direction.

4. How would the Coriolis effect be affected by a reverse rotating Earth?

The Coriolis effect, which is the apparent deflection of moving objects on Earth due to its rotation, would be reversed on a reverse rotating Earth. This means that winds and ocean currents would move in the opposite direction. However, the overall effect of gravity on these objects would remain the same.

5. Would time be affected by a reverse rotating Earth?

No, the direction of Earth's rotation does not affect time. Time is determined by the Earth's rotation around the sun and its tilt on its own axis, not the direction of rotation. Therefore, time would remain the same on a reverse rotating Earth.

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