Astronaut in rotating space station

AI Thread Summary
In a rotating cylindrical space station, the astronaut's ascent affects the apparent gravity experienced on the surface. The fractional change in apparent gravity is calculated to be 1 + m/M, where m is the astronaut's mass and M is the mass of the station. The discussion raises questions about the conservation of angular momentum versus energy, noting that angular momentum is conserved due to the absence of external torque. For the second part of the problem, the method for determining where the astronaut lands after climbing halfway up the spoke is still unclear, with a request for assistance on applying conservation of energy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the principles of physics in the context of rotating systems.
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Homework Statement



cylindrical space station - large diameter, thin walled - radius r, mass M rotating in deep space, no gravity

1)radial spokes of negligible mass connect the cylinder ti the centre of motion. Astronaut mass m climbs a spoke to the centre. What is the fractional change in apparent gravity on the surface of the cylinder?

2)if the astronaut climbs halfway up a spoke and let's go, how far form the base of the spoke will he hit the cylinder? Assume the astronaut is point like..

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



1) Got the answer to be 1+m/M for ratio after/before..

is this right? I applied conservation of energy rather than angular momentum...why is angular momentum not conserved?

2) How do i do this one? Consv of energy again?
 
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anyone?
 
Anyone able to help with this please? :)
 
*bump*
 
You forgot to show your work again. :)

ehild
 
Ok I didn't show because I'm just wanted to ask the following question first:

In the two cases, it is ENERGY rather than ANGULAR MOMENTUM that is conserved - yes? Why is angular momentum not conserved?
 
any ideas?
 
The angular momentum of the whole space-station+ astronaut is conserved, as there is no external torque.

ehild
 

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