A simple question about non-inertial Frames of Reference

In summary, the conversation discusses the difficulty of answering question D due to the possibility of either S or S' accelerating and the impact on the initial velocities. The mention of condition #2 and the lack of specificity in condition #2 are key points in determining the answerability of D and C.
  • #1
Singalo
2
0
Hello
Is it even possible to have an answer for D given condition #4 ?
i need help in just for question D, and not everything else . Thanks :]

The Attempt at a Solution


Because Either S or S' Could be accelerating, and depending on which one and how much is accelerating, there will be different answers for D. Everything else is working out for me up until condition 4 which is giving me trouble answering D.
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  • #2
2 seems to suggest that this is always the particle velocity in S’, since 3 mentions ”initially”.
 
  • #3
Orodruin said:
2 seems to suggest that this is always the particle velocity in S’, since 3 mentions ”initially”.
ahh! i did not notice that. if that's the case then S would definitely be the only one accelerating. Its answerable now. I assumed both of them were initial velocities since these conditions were observed at t=0. Would have helped if condition #2 specifically said that the velocity would not change relative to S'..

If somehow it weren't the case, D cannot be answered right? (just tried out, C would also be unanswerable since yet again, either frame could be accelerating)
 
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FAQ: A simple question about non-inertial Frames of Reference

1. What is a non-inertial frame of reference?

A non-inertial frame of reference is a reference frame in which objects do not move in a straight line at a constant speed, but instead experience acceleration due to external forces. Examples of non-inertial frames include those that rotate or accelerate.

2. How are non-inertial frames different from inertial frames?

Inertial frames of reference are reference frames in which Newton's first law of motion holds true, meaning objects will remain at rest or in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. Non-inertial frames, on the other hand, do not follow this law and require the inclusion of fictitious forces to explain the motion of objects within them.

3. Why are non-inertial frames important in science?

Non-inertial frames are important because many real-world situations involve accelerating or rotating reference frames. By understanding how to account for these frames, scientists can accurately predict the motion of objects and make more precise calculations and measurements.

4. How can non-inertial frames be used in practical applications?

Non-inertial frames are used in various practical applications, such as navigation systems, aircraft and spacecraft design, and motion analysis in sports. These frames help in understanding the forces acting on objects and allowing for more accurate predictions and control of their motion.

5. How is the Coriolis effect related to non-inertial frames?

The Coriolis effect, which is the apparent deflection of moving objects on a rotating surface, is a direct result of the non-inertial nature of the rotating frame of reference. This effect is used in weather forecasting, ocean currents, and other geophysical phenomena that involve rotating reference frames.

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