Ship Bobbing in the Ocean (Frequency Problem)

  • Thread starter Seth Newman
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In summary, the conversation is discussing the problem of determining the frequency at which the perfectly spherical ship, "SpaceForce One", will bob in calm seas on Earth. The ship has a mass of 2.5·10^6 kg and a radius of 42 meters. The problem is approached by making assumptions and approximations, with the team struggling to account for the change in volume of the sphere. Suggestions are given to work in a spherical coordinate system and to consider the amplitude of the bobbing motion. The conversation ends with a question about whether more help is needed.
  • #1
Seth Newman
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Homework Statement


"SpaceForce One" is a perfectly spherical ship of mass 2.5·10^6 kg and Radius 42 meters bobbing up and down in calm seas on Earth At what frequency does SpaceForce ship bob?

Homework Equations


None explicitly given.

The Attempt at a Solution


We approached this problem in a number of ways. We really struggling with making assumptions (we are given quite a bit of liberty to make approximations) that make the problem solvable. We can pretty easily solve the problem if it's a cylinder, but we are having a lot of issues accounting for the change in volume of the sphere.

What would be some helpful assumptions to make? Any hint in the right direction is appreciated. Thanks!
 
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  • #2
You say you're having trouble accounting for the change in volume of the sphere. What coordinate system are you working in? Have you tried spherical?
 
  • #3
TJGilb said:
You say you're having trouble accounting for the change in volume of the sphere. What coordinate system are you working in? Have you tried spherical?

We have, but the equation for the volume of a sphere ends up the same no matter what coordinate system we work in. Is there something we are not thinking about?
 
  • #4
The nice thing is that you can get the volume of displaced water into a convenient equation of depth of the sphere and it's far easier to work in is all. Since it sounded like accounting for the volume was your biggest issue. I can't say what you might have missed without first seeing what you have.
 
  • #5
Seth Newman said:
At what frequency does SpaceForce ship bob?
No amplitude is specified. Consider whether it would truly be SHM if bobbing at large amplitudes. What does that suggest regarding an approach?
 
  • #6

1. What causes a ship to bob in the ocean?

There are a few factors that can cause a ship to bob in the ocean. The main one is the movement of waves, which can create a rocking motion. Wind and currents can also play a role in causing a ship to bob.

2. Is ship bobbing a common occurrence?

Yes, ship bobbing is a common occurrence in the ocean. The degree of bobbing may vary depending on the conditions of the sea, but it is a normal part of sailing on a ship.

3. Can ship bobbing be dangerous?

In most cases, ship bobbing is not dangerous. Ships are designed to withstand the movement of waves and are equipped with stabilizing systems to minimize the impact of bobbing. However, in extreme weather conditions, ship bobbing can become a safety concern.

4. How does a ship's size and shape affect its bobbing motion?

A ship's size and shape can greatly affect its bobbing motion. Larger ships tend to have a smoother and less severe bobbing motion compared to smaller ships. The shape of the hull also plays a role, as a more streamlined shape can reduce the impact of waves on the ship.

5. Can ship bobbing affect the crew and passengers?

Ship bobbing can potentially affect the crew and passengers, especially those who are prone to motion sickness. However, modern ships are equipped with stabilizing systems and other measures to minimize the impact of bobbing on those onboard.

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