How Can You Tell Which Gas Cylinder is Full in Space?

AI Thread Summary
Determining which gas cylinder is full in space can be approached through several methods. One way is to apply a force to each cylinder and measure their acceleration to calculate mass using Newton's second law. Another method involves using a centrifuge to assess the cylinders' rotational speed and radius to find acceleration. Additionally, observing the time it takes for the cylinders to orbit a nearby object can provide insights based on Kepler's laws. Lastly, measuring the pulling force with a spring can also help differentiate between the cylinders based on their mass.
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What are 5 ways to determine which of 2 identical cylinders is empty and which is full of gas if they are in space?
 
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lab-rat said:
What are 5 ways to determine which of 2 identical cylinders is empty and which is full of gas if they are in space?

What do you think?

We can't give you answers. You know this because you agreed to the rules when you signed up.

So...
 
I don't want answers, just to be pointed in the right direction...

I think I found 2 ways.

To apply a force to each cylinder to measure the velocity and find the acceleration. Divide force by acceleration.

Use a small centrifuge and determine rpm and ''radius''. Using a=v2/r, find acceleration. f/a=m

Any other ideas?
 
I also found:
If there is another object nearby, the time the cylinders take to orbit that object can be used to determine mass. (Kepler's law of planetary motion)

Use a spring to measure a pulling force on each cylinder and use Newton's second law
 

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