Does Distance Affect Angular Velocity and Tangential Velocity on Earth?

AI Thread Summary
Distance does not affect angular velocity, which is defined by the number of rotations per unit time. However, tangential velocity is influenced by distance; as the radius of a circle increases, maintaining the same angular velocity requires a higher tangential velocity. This relationship can be visualized by considering the perimeter of a circle and the time taken to complete a lap. The discussion highlights confusion over the question's intent, particularly due to the teacher's vague phrasing. Understanding these concepts is essential for grasping the dynamics of motion on Earth.
Eternalmetal
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1. How do various distances influence the angular velocity of earth? Tangential velocity? explain



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3. For some reason, I tend to think that distance doesn't relate, but I do not know where to begin to explain. I also could not find the answer in my physics book.
 
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Im a little unsure of the question, but...

Angular velocity has nothing to do with the radius of ( or distance from ) the earth. Its purely how many times something is rotating per unit time.

Tangential velocity does depend on distance and you need only to think about it. If I want to make one lap around my around a circle of radius R, it would take me t seconds to do it, and you can also visualize the distance covered as a straight line whose length is simply the perimeter of the circle. To run the perimeter of larger and larger circles in the same amount of time ( so you angular velocity would be the same ) you are going to have to run faster and faster to keep up.

Make sense?
 
Kind of, although I am also unsure of exactly what she is asking. My teacher is vague like that.
 
Eternalmetal said:
My teacher is vague like that.

Ironic :wink:
 
Considering my teacher made up the question, I don't see the irony :lol:
 
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