Calculating Artificial Gravity: v, r & g

AI Thread Summary
A rotating spacecraft generates artificial gravity through centripetal force, with the apparent value of gravity (g) determined by the formula a = v^2/r, where v is the tangential velocity and r is the radius of the station. The perceived gravity is not zero, as astronauts experience a force due to the rotation, and it is also not equal to Earth's gravity of 9.8 m/s² since they are not on Earth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between rotation speed and radius in calculating the effective gravity experienced by astronauts. The concept of artificial gravity is crucial for long-term space missions to ensure astronaut well-being. Proper calculations are essential to create a habitable environment in space.
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A rotating spacecraft uses centripetal force to produce artificial gravity. If i know the radius of the space station and how fast it spins at, what is the apparent value of g on the surface of the station?

I know how to calculate the centripetal acceleration: a=v^2/r

But I was thinking could it be just 9.8? or is it zero, because in space everything is weightless.
 
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well they're asking about the apparent g value which means what the astronauts feel the gravity is on the station. You're right, you have to use a=v^2/r because rotation is what is providing the artificial gravity. It's not 0 because they are not in fact weightless and it's not 9.8 because they are not on the surface of the Earth.
 
thanks :)
 
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