Calculating Artificial Gravity: v, r & g

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of centripetal force to produce artificial gravity on a rotating spacecraft. The speaker asks about the calculation of the apparent value of g on the surface of the space station, and the responder explains that it can be calculated using the formula a=v^2/r. They also clarify that the apparent g value is not 0 or 9.8, as the astronauts are not weightless in space.
  • #1
solars
32
0
A rotating spacecraft uses centripetal force to produce artificial gravity. If i know the radius of the space station and how fast it spins at, what is the apparent value of g on the surface of the station?

I know how to calculate the centripetal acceleration: a=v^2/r

But I was thinking could it be just 9.8? or is it zero, because in space everything is weightless.
 
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  • #2
well they're asking about the apparent g value which means what the astronauts feel the gravity is on the station. You're right, you have to use a=v^2/r because rotation is what is providing the artificial gravity. It's not 0 because they are not in fact weightless and it's not 9.8 because they are not on the surface of the Earth.
 
  • #3
thanks :)
 

Related to Calculating Artificial Gravity: v, r & g

1. How do you calculate artificial gravity?

To calculate artificial gravity, you need to know the velocity (v), radius (r), and gravitational acceleration (g) of the rotating object or structure. The formula for calculating artificial gravity is g = v2/r.

2. What is the relationship between velocity, radius, and artificial gravity?

The relationship between these three components is inverse, meaning that as one increases, the others decrease. This means that as the velocity or radius of a rotating object increases, the artificial gravity decreases.

3. How does artificial gravity compare to natural gravity?

Artificial gravity is created by the centrifugal force of a rotating object or structure, while natural gravity is the result of the mass and density of an object. Artificial gravity can mimic the effects of natural gravity, but it is not the same as the gravitational pull of a planet or other celestial body.

4. Can artificial gravity be used in space?

Yes, artificial gravity can be used in space to simulate the effects of gravity on the human body. This can be beneficial for long-term space missions to prevent the negative effects of zero gravity on astronauts' health.

5. Is artificial gravity a viable solution for long-term space travel?

While artificial gravity can be useful for short-term space missions, it is not yet a viable solution for long-term space travel. The technology and resources needed to create and maintain artificial gravity on a large scale are currently not feasible for long-term space missions.

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