Centripetal Acceleration at Equator

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the centripetal acceleration experienced by an individual standing at the equator due to the Earth's rotation. The problem also involves determining the required rotational speed of the Earth for this centripetal acceleration to equal gravitational acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conversion of the period from days to seconds and the correct application of formulas for centripetal acceleration. There is a focus on ensuring the proper squaring of the period in calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the conversion process and verify calculations. Some participants express confidence in their understanding, while others seek confirmation of their reasoning. Guidance has been provided regarding the calculation steps, but no consensus on the final outcomes has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply. There is an emphasis on ensuring accuracy in the calculations involved.

physics(L)10
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Homework Statement


An individual standing at the equator:
a)What is this individuals centripetal acceleration caused by the Earth's rotation?
b)How fast would the Earth need to spin in order for the centripetal acceleration to be equal to g?

T=1 day
radius of Earth = 6.4x10^6 m


Homework Equations


a=v^2/r, v=2pir/T


The Attempt at a Solution


We need to convert the period from day to seconds and then plug in the information.

a=4pi^2r/T^2 = 4pi^2(6.4x10^6)/(1x60x60x60)
 
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physics(L)10 said:
1.

The Attempt at a Solution


We need to convert the period from day to seconds and then plug in the information.

a=4pi^2r/T^2 = 4pi^2(6.4x10^6)/(1x60x60x60)


How do you convert one day to seconds?

ehild
 
1 day x 24hrs/day x 60min/hr x 60 sec/min ... My bad, I put 60 instead of 24
 
Well, and do not forget to square T.

ehild
 
So I'm right?
 
Yeah I'm pretty sure I'm right, Thanks for your help :D :D And I figured out the last question thank you :D
 
You are welcome :)

ehild
 

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