Equivalence principle and Helium balloon.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the equivalence principle to explain why a helium balloon leans forward in a forward-accelerating car. The equivalence principle states that gravitational force is equivalent to acceleration. Participants clarify that while equations are not necessary for a qualitative explanation, understanding the relevant concepts is crucial. The conversation highlights the confusion surrounding the application of these concepts in practical scenarios, such as comparing a balloon inside a car to one outside.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the equivalence principle in physics
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration and gravity
  • Familiarity with qualitative analysis in physics problems
  • Concept of reference frames in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the equivalence principle in different reference frames
  • Study examples of non-inertial frames and their effects on objects
  • Explore the relationship between buoyancy and acceleration
  • Investigate practical applications of the equivalence principle in modern physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining the equivalence principle, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of objects in accelerating frames of reference.

KiyoEtAlice
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Homework Statement


Use the equivalence principle to explain the observation that a helium balloon leans forward in a forward-accelerating car.


Homework Equations


I don't think equations are needed.


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm completely confused on this question
 
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KiyoEtAlice said:

Homework Equations


I don't think equations are needed.
While you do not need equations to qualitatively explain this phenomenon, you still need relevant concepts. What are the relevant concepts here?
 
D H said:
While you do not need equations to qualitatively explain this phenomenon, you still need relevant concepts. What are the relevant concepts here?

I'm not sure... they only concept that I can think of is the equicalence principle, but I've always been bemused on this subject, so I don't know.
 
So, what does the equivalence principle say?

Is this homework, or just a problem that is vexing you? (Be honest.)
 
It's part of the book pratice exercise, nothing complusory, but it's getting on my nerves because it's the last problem of the lot (the other belong to different catorgories).

This is pretty much a straight forward definition: http://www.answers.com/topic/equivalence-principle

Or simple Gravity = acceleration.

Thanks btw
 
So, what happens to a balloon in a car suspended in the air from the front bumper? What is the difference between that and the horizontal but accelerating car?
 
Sorry, but I don't get it.
 
He's asking what the difference would be if the balloon were outside or inside of the car.
 
My friend helped explain it to me, so I'm through with this. Thanks anyways.
 

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