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Force attracting two Earth masses with their centers 1 Earth radius apart ~ 6.673e-11 (6e24)^2/6378000^2 = ~5.9e25 N. Force needed to accelerate one Earth mass at 9.81 m/sec/sec ~ 6e24* 9.81 = 5.9e25 N.DaveC426913 said:
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the hypothetical scenario of a planet with the mass of Earth traveling at 500,000 mph. Participants explore the implications of this speed on the planet's mass, the forces required to stop it, and the conceptual challenges posed by such a scenario, including relativistic effects and comic book physics.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants question the relevance of relativistic effects at 500,000 mph, suggesting that they can be ignored as the speed is significantly less than a substantial fraction of the speed of light.
- Others note that the concept of "mass increase" due to relativistic speeds is not commonly used in modern physics, and any increase at this speed would be negligible.
- One participant proposes calculating the force required to stop a planet with Earth's mass traveling at 500,000 mph, leading to discussions about the time frame for such a stop and the implications of the required force.
- Participants calculate the force needed to stop the planet in various time frames, discussing the unrealistic nature of such forces and the physical consequences of attempting to stop a planet in a short time.
- There is a humorous acknowledgment of "comic book physics," with references to the superhero Hyperion and the absurdity of the scenario, including the idea that physics may not apply in this fictional context.
- Some participants engage in playful speculation about the nature of the forces involved and the implications of pushing against a planet's momentum.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement on the relevance of relativistic effects and the feasibility of stopping a planet. While some agree that the forces discussed are unrealistic, others maintain a lighthearted approach to the hypothetical scenario, leading to a blend of serious and playful discourse.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the speculative nature of the scenario, the reliance on fictional elements, and the lack of consensus on the application of physics principles in this context.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to those exploring the intersection of physics and popular culture, particularly in the context of superhero narratives and hypothetical scenarios involving extreme forces and speeds.
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