Equivalence principle and Helium balloon.

[KiyoEtAlice]

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

 

[D H]

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?

 

[KiyoEtAlice]

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.

 

[D H]

So, what does the equivalence principle say?

Is this homework, or just a problem that is vexing you? (Be honest.)

 

[KiyoEtAlice]

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

 

[D H]

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?

 

[KiyoEtAlice]

Sorry, but I don't get it.

 

[Rake-MC]

He's asking what the difference would be if the balloon were outside or inside of the car.

 

[KiyoEtAlice]

My friend helped explain it to me, so I'm through with this. Thanks anyways.