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Figure 6 shows a rotating spacecraft that is proposed to carry astronauts to Mars - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Figure 6 shows a rotating spacecraft that is proposed to carry astronauts to Mars. The spacecraft consists of two parts A and B connected by a rigid cylindrical rod... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 6 shows a rotating spacecraft that is proposed to carry astronauts to Mars - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why the spacecraft imitates gravity
Answer
As the spacecraft rotates, the astronauts experience a centripetal force directed towards the center of rotation. This force acts as a form of artificial gravity as it provides the necessary acceleration for the astronauts to experience a weight-like force against the floor. This is because, in a rotating reference frame, the centrifugal force felt by the astronauts mimics the effects of gravity, creating a sensation of weight.