The discussion revolves around the concept of weightlessness experienced by astronauts in orbit, specifically questioning the common assertion that they are beyond the pull of gravity. Participants explore the relationship between gravity and weight in the context of orbital mechanics.
Participants are actively engaging with the concept of free fall and its implications for weightlessness. There is a recognition that while gravity is present, the absence of opposing forces leads to the experience of weightlessness. Multiple interpretations of the relationship between gravity and weight are being explored.
Some participants express confusion regarding the definitions and implications of weightlessness and free fall, indicating a need for further clarification on these concepts. There is an ongoing examination of assumptions related to gravitational effects at different altitudes.
Correct.mizzy said:Homework Statement
If someone told you that astronauts are weightless in orbit because they are beyond the pull of gravity, would you accept this statement? Explain.
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
I say no.
Gravity is a bit weaker, but only about 10% weaker. That does not explain their apparent weightlessness.There is still gravity, but its just weaker with distance.
You are not in the right direction. What causes their apparent weightlessness? A 200 pound astronaut still weighs about 180 pounds a few hundred miles up.Can someone help me understand the concept? Am i in the right direction?
Yes, when an object or person is subject to gravity forces only (no contact forces),it is said to be in a state of 'free fall' . It's like dropping an object from a tall building (assuming no air resistance); the object still has weight (W=mg) during its decent, but because there is no contact force acting on it, it is 'apparently' weightless during the fall ( a scale attached to the botton of it would read zero). Of course, an astronaut and his/her ship does not fall straight down to Earth in exactly the same way, becuse of its high speed keeping it in orbit due to the centripetal force supplied by Earth's gravity causing it to move in a circle while nonetheless continuously 'falling' toward earth.mizzy said:so would that be the answer, because they are in free fall?