Gravity Problem: Equator vs Poles - What Happens?

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    Gravitation
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of Earth's rotation on gravitational acceleration ('g') at different latitudes, specifically comparing the equator and the poles. Participants explore the implications of a hypothetical scenario where the Earth stops rotating, examining how this would affect apparent weight as measured by a scale.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that if the Earth stops rotating, the value of 'g' will increase by Rω² at the equator but remain the same at the poles, seeking clarification on this phenomenon.
  • Another participant introduces the concept of a scale reading and relates it to Newton's 2nd law, prompting further exploration of how apparent weight is determined.
  • There is a request for more precision in the explanation, indicating some confusion about the initial claims.
  • Participants discuss the relationship between the equator and poles, suggesting that understanding the situation at the equator will clarify the scenario at the poles.
  • One participant expresses that they have understood the point clearly after the discussion, indicating some level of comprehension reached.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the implications for the poles compared to the equator, as the discussion remains exploratory and some confusion persists regarding the explanations provided.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed mathematical derivations and assumptions regarding the values of R and ω, which may affect the conclusions drawn about gravitational changes.

anigeo
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if the Earth stops rotating , the value of 'g' will increase by Rω2 at the equator but will remain same at the poles.how does it happen?could you please explain me this?
 
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Imagine something was resting on a scale (such as a bathroom scale). What determines the reading of the scale? (Apply Newton's 2nd law.)
 
Doc Al said:
Imagine something was resting on a scale (such as a bathroom scale). What determines the reading of the scale? (Apply Newton's 2nd law.)

Can u be a little more precise.i could not get what u said.
 
anigeo said:
Can u be a little more precise.i could not get what u said.
What didn't you understand?

Imagine you are at the equator standing on a scale. The scale reads your apparent weight. If the Earth stopped rotating, how would the reading change?
 
then doc, what about the poles?
 
anigeo said:
then doc, what about the poles?
When you figure out the answer at the equator, the answer at the poles will be clear.
 
Doc Al said:
When you figure out the answer at the equator, the answer at the poles will be clear.
i got the point clearly`.
thanx.
 

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