What is the Velocity of a Person at the Equator?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the speed of a person at the equator, the discussion emphasizes using the formula v = (GM/r^2 - g)^(1/2), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, r is the radius of the Earth, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. The participants clarify that the radius used should be that of the Earth, not the Moon, since the person is located at the Earth's equator. They discuss the relationship between gravitational force and centripetal acceleration, leading to the derivation of the velocity formula. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding gravitational forces and their impact on motion. Ultimately, the participants express gratitude for the assistance in clarifying the calculations.
nrc_8706
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:confused: Given: r(Earth)=6.37*10^6 m
m(earth)=5.98*10^24 kg
r(moon)=1.74*10^6m
g=9.8 m/s^2
G=6.67259*10^-11 Nm^2/kg^2

Calculate the speed of a 97.4kg person at the equator.
do u use a=v^2/r v=sqr root (a*r) ?
 
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Hello?!

Can Anybody Help Me?!
 
\Sigma F = ma_c

... you know that gravity is the force acting towards the center, you know the radius, so you can find the v.
 
...

ok, taking what you said i got that Gravity=m*v^2/r

v=(gr/m)^1/2 correct?
 
which radius do u use? the Earth's or the moon's?
 
where is the person?
 
equartor

he is at the equator
 
of which? the Earth or the moon? which radius does it make sense to use?
 
at the Earth's equator
 
  • #10
yeah, so use the Earth's equator..
 
  • #11
do u use 9.8m/s^2 or 6.67*10^-11
 
  • #12
those are two different things... you can use either, if you know what you're doing.
 
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  • #13
F_g - N = m \times \frac {v^2}{r}
\frac{GMm}{r^2} - mg = \frac {mv^2}{r}
\frac{GM}{r^2} - g = \frac{v^2}{r}

now solve for v.

do you understand what i did?
 
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  • #14
v=(GM/r^2-g)^1/2


=(((6.67*10^-11*5.98*10^24)/(6.37*10^6)^2)-9.8)^1/2 correct?
 
  • #15
nrc_8706 said:
v=(GM/r^2-g)^1/2
=(((6.67*10^-11*5.98*10^24)/(6.37*10^6)^2)-9.8)^1/2 correct?

there should be an "r"

v=((GM/r^2 - g)*r)^1/2more importantly, do you understand how i got that?
 
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  • #16
yes thank you. i knew it had something to do with F=GMm/R^2 i just didnt know what to do. thank for all your help and your patience.
 
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