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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying which of two identical gas cylinders is full and which is empty while in a space environment. The context involves principles of physics related to motion and forces.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various methods to differentiate between the cylinders, including measuring acceleration through applied force, using a centrifuge to determine acceleration, and employing orbital mechanics with nearby objects. They also consider using a spring to measure force based on Newton's second law.

Discussion Status

Several participants have shared initial ideas and approaches, indicating a productive exploration of the problem. There is no explicit consensus yet, but multiple lines of reasoning are being examined.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the constraints of not providing direct answers, which shapes the nature of the discussion and encourages exploration of concepts rather than solutions.

lab-rat
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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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