Effect of centrifigual force on a gavity bound object

In summary, the relation between the density of a spinning sphere and the degree of shrinking of its minor axis depends on the elasticity of the sphere. The faster the sphere spins, the less dense it becomes, and this seems to be proportional to the length of the minor axis. However, assuming two spheres made of the same material, the differing densities may not make a significant difference. Additionally, the gravity of a spinning, gravity-bound sphere may also impact its degree of flattening, but it is not the main factor. This conversation may pertain to a neutron star, as mentioned in a previous post.
  • #1
soandos
166
0
is there a relation between the density of a sphere spinning at a given rate and the degree by which the minor axis shrinks?
if there is a relation, what is it.
thanks a lot
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
That will depend very much on the elasticity of the sphere.
 
  • #3
The faster the sphere spins, the less dense the sphere is. It seems to be proportional to the length of the minor axis.
 
  • #4
assuming though that i have two spheres made of the same material, would the differing densities make a difference?
also, i think that pixel you misunderstood. i realize that as it spins it should get more dense as the volume is shrinking, but that is not my question.
 
Last edited:
  • #5
I don't think gravity has much to do with it. its a GRAVITY bound sphere. it would form an ellipsoid. the denser the object the stronger the gravity so yes for any given rotation rate the degree of flattening will be less.


i presume this is about the neutron star you mentioned in your other post.
 
  • #6
i realized that this would happen. i just do not know by how much.
 

FAQ: Effect of centrifigual force on a gavity bound object

How does centrifugal force affect the orbit of a gravity-bound object?

Centrifugal force is a fictitious force that is experienced by an object when it is moving in a curved path. In the case of a gravity-bound object, centrifugal force acts in the opposite direction to the force of gravity, creating an outward force that can affect the object's orbit. This force is dependent on the object's mass, velocity, and distance from the center of rotation.

Can centrifugal force cause a gravity-bound object to break away from its orbit?

In most cases, centrifugal force alone is not strong enough to cause a gravity-bound object to break away from its orbit. This is because the force of gravity is much stronger than centrifugal force and keeps the object in orbit. However, if the object's velocity is high enough, centrifugal force can play a role in destabilizing its orbit.

What factors can affect the strength of centrifugal force on a gravity-bound object?

The strength of centrifugal force on a gravity-bound object is dependent on several factors, including the object's mass, velocity, and distance from the center of rotation. The larger the object's mass and velocity, and the farther it is from the center of rotation, the stronger the centrifugal force will be.

How does centrifugal force impact the shape of a gravity-bound object's orbit?

Centrifugal force can affect the shape of a gravity-bound object's orbit in a few ways. If the object's velocity is high enough, it can cause the orbit to become more elliptical, rather than circular. Additionally, if there are other forces acting on the object, such as the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies, centrifugal force can cause the orbit to shift or change shape.

Can centrifugal force affect the stability of a gravity-bound object's orbit?

Centrifugal force can play a role in the stability of a gravity-bound object's orbit. If the object's velocity is too high, it can cause the orbit to become unstable and potentially break away from its orbit. However, in most cases, centrifugal force is not strong enough to destabilize an object's orbit, and other factors such as gravitational forces and the object's own inertia play a larger role in maintaining its stability.

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
16
Views
4K
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
27
Views
3K
Back
Top