Centripetal Acceleration Problem

In summary, the question asks for the centripetal acceleration of the Moon, given its orbital period and radius. The formula for centripetal acceleration in a circular orbit is a = V^2/R, where V can be calculated using the formula V = 2*pi*R/P. The period must be converted to seconds before using the formula. It is important to show an attempt at solving the problem in accordance with the guidelines of the forum.
  • #1
perfectlovehe
9
0

Homework Statement



What is the centripetal acceleration of the Moon? The period of the Moon's orbit about the Earth is 27.3 days, measured with respect to the fixed stars. The radius of the Moon's orbit is
RM = 3.85 · 108 m.

Homework Equations



a = V^2/R

V = 2*pi*R/P

The Attempt at a Solution



Centripetal acceleration in a circular orbit of radius R is
a = V^2/R

You can get V from the orbit radius, R, and the period, P.

V = 2*pi*R/P

Make sure P is in seconds when you compute V.
 
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  • #2
Please show your attempt at this question as per PF guidelines.

Jared
 
  • #3
@perfectlovehe you posted 3 questions without a single attempt ... please show your approach..
 

FAQ: Centripetal Acceleration Problem

1. What is centripetal acceleration?

Centripetal acceleration is the acceleration experienced by an object moving in a circular path. It is always directed towards the center of the circle and its magnitude is dependent on the velocity and radius of the object's circular motion.

2. How is centripetal acceleration calculated?

The formula for centripetal acceleration is a = v^2/r, where a is the acceleration, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path.

3. What is the difference between centripetal acceleration and tangential acceleration?

Centripetal acceleration is the acceleration towards the center of a circular path, while tangential acceleration is the acceleration tangent to the circular path. They are both components of a total acceleration in circular motion.

4. How does centripetal acceleration affect an object's motion?

Centripetal acceleration is responsible for keeping an object in circular motion. It continuously changes the direction of the object's velocity, but not its speed.

5. Can centripetal acceleration be negative?

Yes, centripetal acceleration can be negative if the object's velocity is decreasing or if the object is moving in the opposite direction of the center of the circle. Negative centripetal acceleration can also be referred to as centrifugal acceleration.

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