Equivalence principle and Helium balloon.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the equivalence principle to understand the behavior of a helium balloon in a forward-accelerating car. Participants are exploring the qualitative aspects of this phenomenon without relying on equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion regarding the relevant concepts needed to explain the observed behavior of the balloon. Questions arise about the definition and implications of the equivalence principle, as well as the differences in scenarios involving the balloon inside versus outside the car.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a mix of attempts to clarify concepts and express confusion. Some participants are seeking definitions and relevant concepts, while others share their struggles with understanding the equivalence principle. There is acknowledgment of the problem's context as part of a practice exercise, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem is part of a book practice exercise and not compulsory, which may influence their engagement and motivation. The discussion includes references to the equivalence principle and its implications for understanding the behavior 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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