Gravitational Acceleration near a Massive Black Hole

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around gravitational acceleration near a massive black hole, specifically focusing on calculations involving the radius and mass of the black hole, as well as the gravitational effects experienced by an astronaut positioned at a certain distance from the black hole.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between gravitational acceleration and distance from the black hole, questioning how to calculate the difference in gravitational acceleration between different points on the astronaut's body. There is discussion about the correct interpretation of variables and the setup of the problem.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations for gravitational acceleration at specific distances, while others are seeking clarification on how to properly relate these values to find the difference in acceleration between the astronaut's head and feet. There is an ongoing exploration of the assumptions and definitions involved in the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of the problem as stated, including the specific distances and the mass of the black hole. There is a focus on ensuring that calculations align with the problem's requirements without reaching a definitive conclusion.

mb85
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The radius Rhand mass Mh of a black hole are related by Rh = 2GMh/c^2, where c is the speed of light. Assume that the gravitational acceleration agof an object at a distance Ro = 1.001Rh from the center of a black hole is given by Ag = G M / r^2 (it is, for large black holes). (a) What is ag at ro for a very large black hole whose mass is 1.61 × 10^14 times the solar mass of 1.99 × 10^30 kg? (b) If an astronaut with a height of 1.66 m is at ro with her feet toward this black hole, what is the difference in gravitational acceleration between her head and her feet?


Rh = 2(6.67x10^-11)(3.204x10^44)/ (3.0x10^8)^2
Rh = 4.75 x 10^17

So then, Ag = GM/ (1.001Rh)^2
Ag = (6.67x10-11)(3.204x10^44)/(1.001 x 4.75x10^17)^2
Ag = 0.0945 m/s^2

I find myself having trouble with part B. How do i relate them?

I did Ag = (6.67x10^-11)(3.204x10^44)/(1.66 x 4.75x10^17)^2
Ag = 0.0344 m/s^2
So i did the difference btwn answer A and B and got .0601 m/s^2

But i know its wrong. Can someone help me out? Thanks!
 
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In part B,

calculate ag at ro and at (ro + 1.66 m).

This assumes the astronaut's feet are at ro.
 
So isn't Ro part A's answer?

and when you say Ro + 1.66, does that mean...
Ro =(1.001+1.66)Rh?
 
mb85 said:
So isn't Ro part A's answer?

and when you say Ro + 1.66, does that mean...
Ro =(1.001+1.66)Rh?
According to the problem, in part A, one is to calculate ag at ro.

In part B, find the between ag(ro) and ag(ro+1.66m).

It should be something like A * (1/ro2 - 1/(ro+1.66m)2), where A is some constant.
 

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