Coriolis force canceling out gravity

In summary, the question is how to minimize speed while moving in Leuven (54°N) so that the vertical component of the Coriolis force cancels out the gravitational force. To answer this, one must set up a coordinate system and calculate the Coriolis force in terms of velocity and rotation rate. Then, determine which components of velocity contribute to the vertical component of force.
  • #1
arnesmeets
18
2
Arne wants to move in Leuven (54°N) with such a high speed that the vertical component of the Coriolis force cancels out the gravitational force. In which direction should he move to keep his speed as small as possible? How big is this speed? How big is the horizontal component of the Coriolis force?

I don't have a clue how to get started on this
 
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  • #2
arnesmeets said:
Arne wants to move in Leuven (54°N) with such a high speed that the vertical component of the Coriolis force cancels out the gravitational force. In which direction should he move to keep his speed as small as possible? How big is this speed? How big is the horizontal component of the Coriolis force?

I don't have a clue how to get started on this
Do you know what the Coriolis force is, and how it is related to the rotation of the earth? Set up a coordinate system at Leuven with perhaps x to the East and y to the North and z vertical (a typcial choice) and express the relevant vectors in this coordinate system. Calculate the Coriolis force in terms of the velocity and rotation rate and find out which components of velocity contribute to the vertical component of force. Take it from there.
 

Related to Coriolis force canceling out gravity

What is Coriolis force canceling out gravity?

Coriolis force canceling out gravity is a phenomenon in which the Coriolis force, caused by the rotation of the Earth, balances out the force of gravity acting on an object.

How does Coriolis force cancel out gravity?

The Coriolis force is perpendicular to the direction of motion of an object and causes it to deviate from a straight path. When the object is moving in a vertical direction, the Coriolis force and the force of gravity act in opposite directions, resulting in a canceling out of the two forces.

Does Coriolis force canceling out gravity have any real-world applications?

Yes, this phenomenon is crucial in understanding the movement of objects in the atmosphere and ocean. It plays a significant role in weather patterns, ocean currents, and the rotation of hurricanes.

Is Coriolis force canceling out gravity a universal principle?

No, the Coriolis force and its interaction with gravity are dependent on the rotation of the Earth. Other planets and celestial bodies may have different factors that affect the motion of objects.

Can Coriolis force cancel out gravity completely?

No, Coriolis force can never fully cancel out gravity as it is only a secondary force that acts on moving objects. The force of gravity is a primary force that is always present and cannot be negated entirely.

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