Gravitational Attraction at Equator

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SUMMARY

The weight of a person at the equator is measured at 725N using a spring balance. This weight differs from the true gravitational force due to the additional centrifugal force acting on objects at the equator, resulting from the Earth's rotation. To accurately determine the gravitational attraction at the equator, one must account for this centrifugal effect, which reduces the apparent weight compared to the true gravitational force. Understanding this concept is crucial for solving related physics problems involving gravitational forces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force and weight
  • Knowledge of centrifugal force and its effects
  • Familiarity with the concept of Earth's rotation
  • Basic proficiency in physics problem-solving techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the formula for calculating gravitational force at the equator
  • Learn about the effects of centrifugal force on weight measurements
  • Study the principles of Earth's rotation and its impact on gravitational attraction
  • Explore examples of weight differences at various latitudes
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching gravitational concepts, and anyone interested in the effects of Earth's rotation on weight measurements.

Felin
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The weight of a person at the equator, as determined by a spring balance, is 725N.

By how much does this differ from the true force of gravitational attraction at the same point? Assume that the Earth is spherically symmetric.

This question is on a section that we havn't even done yet so I am completely lost as to what to do to figure this one out.
 
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There is an additonal force at the equator that isn't present at the poles. Once you realize what that is, you can calculate its magnitude.

Dorothy
 

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