Fictitious force in a binary stars

Thread starter Rikudo
Start date Aug 23, 2022
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Binary Fictitious force Force Stars

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of fictitious forces in the context of binary stars, specifically focusing on the non-inertial frame of reference. The key point raised is the identification of the appropriate frame of reference for analyzing the forces acting on mass 'm'. The suggestion is to consider the frame of reference of mass 'm' itself to determine the fictitious force that, when combined with the normal force, yields the instantaneous acceleration of 'm'.

PREREQUISITES

Understanding of non-inertial frames of reference
Basic knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
Familiarity with the concept of acceleration
Knowledge of forces acting on objects in motion

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Students of physics, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of forces in non-inertial frames, particularly in celestial mechanics.

Aug 23, 2022

Rikudo

Homework Statement: Two planets with mass M1 and M2 revolve around each other in circular orbits. The distance between them is r. A mass m that is located on the surface of M1 with radius R feels fictitious force that modifies the mass's acceleration. Assume that mass m is very small and ignore the effect from M1's rotation. (see figure)

Write down the vector of the fictitious force in m, M2, r, gravity constant G, and unit vector!

Relevant Equations: -

I have a difficulty in understanding the question.
Fictitious force is a force whose motion is described using a non-inertial frame of reference. Which frame is the question referring to?

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Aug 24, 2022

haruspex

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Rikudo said:

Which frame is the question referring to?

Excellent question!
I suggest m's frame of reference, i.e. find that force which, added to the normal force, results in m's instantaneous acceleration.