How Far Can a Spider Safely Cling to a Spinning Ceiling Fan Blade?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of a spider clinging to a ceiling fan blade rotating at 100 revolutions per minute (RPM). The centripetal acceleration must not exceed 0.3g for the spider to maintain its grip. Calculations using the formula for angular velocity and centripetal acceleration indicate a safe radius of approximately 0.0268 meters. However, a discrepancy arises as another participant claims the safe distance is 1.05 meters, suggesting a need for further verification of the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal acceleration and its formula
  • Knowledge of angular velocity and its calculation
  • Familiarity with the concept of gravitational acceleration (g)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of centripetal acceleration formulas
  • Study the relationship between RPM and angular velocity
  • Explore the effects of varying RPM on centripetal forces
  • Investigate real-world applications of centripetal acceleration in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the dynamics of rotating systems and the effects of centripetal forces on small objects.

Masafi
Messages
58
Reaction score
0
A ceiling fan is turning at a rate of 100 revolutions per minute. A spider is clinging to a blade. If he experiences a centripetal acc greater than 0.3g, he wil lose his grip and be flung off. How far from the centre can he safely go?

I used: T = 60/100 = 0.6

angular velocity = 2pi/T = 10pi/3

a = (10pi/3)^2 * radius

using a = 0.3g

i get radius = 0.0268...

But the answer is 1.05m?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your answer looks right to me.
 

Similar threads

Centripetal acceleration fan problem
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Ceiling Fan Blade Acceleration and Angle Calculation
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
9K
Ceiling Fan Angular Acceleration
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
14K