Centripetal Force Calculation: How Many G's Can Your Centrifuge Simulate?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the centripetal force generated by a centrifuge designed to simulate increased gravity. The centrifuge operates at 35,000 RPM with samples positioned 1.75 inches from the center of rotation. Using the formula for centripetal force, participants aim to determine how many times the force of gravity (9.81 m/s²) can be simulated. The key formula for centripetal acceleration is a = ω²r, where ω is the angular velocity in radians per second and r is the radius in meters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force and acceleration
  • Familiarity with angular velocity calculations
  • Basic knowledge of unit conversions (inches to meters)
  • Proficiency in physics concepts related to gravity
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate centripetal acceleration using the formula a = ω²r
  • Convert RPM to radians per second for accurate calculations
  • Explore the effects of varying sample distances on simulated gravity
  • Research safety measures for high-speed centrifuge operations
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, engineers designing centrifuges, and researchers in fields requiring simulated gravity environments will benefit from this discussion.

JarrettHayama
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#1 Round and round we go! You are constructing a centrifuge to use its spinning motion to act like increased gravity.
(a) Find the formula for centripetal force.
(b) Your centrifuge can spin at 35,000 rpms and your samples are placed 1.75 inches from the center of rotation. If the force of gravity is g = 9.81m/s2, how many times the force of gravity can your centrifuge simulate?
 
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JarrettHayama said:
#1 Round and round we go! You are constructing a centrifuge to use its spinning motion to act like increased gravity.
(a) Find the formula for centripetal force.
(b) Your centrifuge can spin at 35,000 rpms and your samples are placed 1.75 inches from the center of rotation. If the force of gravity is g = 9.81m/s2, how many times the force of gravity can your centrifuge simulate?

That last bit should read, "If the acceleration due to gravity is..."

What have you tried so far?
 

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