Why are the Actual G Forces Experienced by Astronauts Less than Predicted?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding why the actual g forces experienced by astronauts are less than those predicted, particularly during takeoff. The subject area includes concepts of gravity, acceleration, and forces in the context of space travel.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore different scenarios regarding which phase of the flight (takeoff, in space, reentry) is being referenced. Questions are raised about the specific predicted values of g forces and the conditions under which they apply.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the nature of gravitational forces and acceleration, suggesting that the standard value of 9.8 m/s² applies under specific conditions. There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between acceleration and the forces experienced during takeoff.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of specific numerical predictions mentioned in the discussion, and assumptions about the phases of flight and the application of gravitational forces are being questioned.

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Homework Statement


why are the actual g forces astronauts experience are less than those predicted.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Many internet searches
Textbook study
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Which G forces? Takeoff? In space? Reentry?
And do you have a number for what the predicted gravity should be?
 
I'm pretty sure it's from takeoff
and the gravity should be 9.8
 
That 9.8 only applies to things that are moving at a constant speed. Right now I'm sitting in a chair and my velocity in an up/down direction is a constant 0, so gravity is the only thing acting on me. The shuttle has more "gravity" force because the shuttle is accelerating in an updward direction. The Earth's 9.8 gravity still applies, but on top of that you need to add the force caused by shuttle acceleration. F=ma.

In case that sounded weird, 9.8m/s^2 only applies on earth. F=ma applies to everything in the universe.
 
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