Warm air rising vs centripetal force

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a hollow object attached to a tether and rotating around a central body. The object's dimensions and speed are not specified, but the focus is on the centripetal force, which is equivalent to Earth's gravity and causes water to press against the outer edge of the object. The conversation also mentions the possibility of the object supporting its own microclimate, where water evaporates from the bottom and falls as rain. The question posed is whether centripetal force will cause water vapor in the object to rise towards the center of rotation or outwards. It is concluded that due to the buoyancy effect, the water vapor will tend to rise towards the center of rotation, against the local direction of "gravity
  • #1
Shraa
9
0
I assume this is the correct forum for this question... :P

This is the idea: we have a hollow object (probably a sphere or cylinder), attached to a tether, rotating around a central body. The dimensions and speed I don't have specifics for and shouldn't matter: the point is, centripetal force is equivalent to Earth gravity, so water is pressed against the 'outer' edge of the object.

Now, this shape is large enough for it to support its own microclimate; i.e. water at the bottom evaporates, rises, and falls as rain. When the object is set on this tether, it is heated from the 'outer' edge of the object. So this is my question:

Will centripetal force cause water vapour in the object to rise towards the centre of rotation, or outwards (and return to the water)?

As usual, many thanks to any answers that can be given!
 
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  • #2
At the same temperature, water vapor (molecular weight 18) is less dense than air (nitrogen 28, oxygen 32, CO2 44).

So because of the buoyancy effect the water vapor will tend to "rise" to the center of the rotating hollow object, against the local direction of "gravity".

Incidentally, you can show the same effect with a rotating container full of water. Objects that float in water (i.e. are less dense than the water) will tend to move to the center not the outside edge.

The same principle affects fires in rotating structures (for example fires in jet engines caused by fuel getting into the wrong place, or oil overheating). The fire builds up in the middle of the rotating volume, not around the edges.
 

Related to Warm air rising vs centripetal force

1. What is the difference between warm air rising and centripetal force?

The main difference between warm air rising and centripetal force is the mechanism that causes the movement of air. Warm air rises due to its lower density compared to the surrounding cooler air, while centripetal force is a result of an object's circular motion.

2. How does warm air rising affect weather patterns?

Warm air rising plays a crucial role in creating weather patterns. As warm air rises, it cools and forms clouds, which can lead to precipitation. This process is a major contributor to the formation of thunderstorms, hurricanes, and other severe weather events.

3. Can centripetal force affect the movement of warm air?

Yes, centripetal force can affect the movement of warm air. In the Earth's atmosphere, the rotation of the planet creates centripetal force, which can influence the direction and speed of warm air currents.

4. Why does warm air rise instead of sinking?

Warm air rises because of its lower density compared to cooler air. This is due to the fact that warm air molecules are farther apart and weigh less than cooler air molecules. This difference in density causes the warm air to rise and the cooler air to sink.

5. How does the Coriolis effect relate to warm air rising and centripetal force?

The Coriolis effect is a result of the Earth's rotation and its impact on the movement of air and other objects. Warm air rising and centripetal force are both affected by the Coriolis effect as the Earth's rotation influences the direction and speed of air currents and other circular motions.

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