How Do You Calculate Apparent Weight in a Rotating Space Station?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the apparent weight of an astronaut in a rotating space station using the equations of motion. The key formulas utilized include a = v²/r and f = mv²/r, where 'a' represents acceleration, 'v' is velocity, 'm' is mass, and 'r' is the radius of rotation. The apparent weight is determined by equating the astronaut's velocity to the rotating space station's velocity, specifically v_station = √(0.7gr). The final expressions for acceleration in two scenarios are provided as a = ((√0.7gr) ± 5)²/r, indicating the influence of both the astronaut's velocity and the station's rotation.

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sclatters
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Homework Statement


29yqrmp.png



Homework Equations


a=v2/r

f=mv2/r


The Attempt at a Solution


I have been able to complete this first part of the question by equating 0.7g to v2/r, solving to find v then calculating T by looking at the circumference of the cylinder and using v=d/T.

I'm really struggling with the next part. Do I need to calculate the force on the astronaut himself (using f=mv2/r) and perhaps use this to help with finding the apparent weight?

Thanks.

P.s. If anyone could explain how to make the image smaller, that would be great!
 
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sclatters said:
P.s. If anyone could explain how to make the image smaller, that would be great!
I think tinypic provides thumbnails (=smaller versions) for their uploads. Alternatively, use a graphics program.The "apparent weight" is the same as the force acting on the astronaut, and you can use the same formula as in the first part, right. Just keep in mind that the velocity is different.
 
Ok, so I now have the following apparent weights:

Velocity of astronaut=5m/s
Velocity of rotating space station=(√0.7gr)m/s

For ABC: a=((√0.7gr)+5)/r

For ACB: a=((√0.7gr)-5)/r

Do these sound ok?
 
Velocity of rotating space station=(√0.7gr)m/s
Just vstation=√(0.7gr)
The variables have the proper units, if you add more units it gets wrong.

You can calculate the velocity for the rotating space station, as you know g and r.
There are squares missing.
 
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Thanks, that's my poor inputting!

ABC: a=((√0.7gr)+5)2/r

ACB: a=((√0.7gr)-5)2/r

(To be inputted into a calculator)

I hope these look better!
 
That notation is a bit ambiguous in terms of "what does the square root cover", but I guess you mean the right thing.
 
Sorry I didn't know how to extend the square root, I'll have to learn! Thanks for the help!
 

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