The Speed of Change: Centripetal Force

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of speed of change, specifically in regards to changes in position between two bodies through centripetal force. It is mentioned that all fields, including electric, magnetic, and gravitational, have a speed limit of c. This means that even if one body were to suddenly change position, the effects of that change would not be felt by the other body until a certain amount of time has passed. It is also noted that while the speed of change is typically considered to be linear, it can also have higher order changes, known as "jerk". The reason for the existence of a speed limit is not fully understood, but it is a fundamental concept in physics.
  • #1
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I was just thinking that whether changes have any speed.
Suppose we have a system in which a bodyA is rotating around an other body B through centripetal force. If B gets an instantaneous hit so that its position changes. Then what will be the speed of change or effect or whatever with which the displacement of B is communicated to A:confused:
 
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  • #2
The speed is c.

All electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields move at c.
 
  • #3
Which translates into: If B were the Sun and it suddenly exploded at this very moment, and A were the Earth, then we wouldn’t experience any gravitational effects for another 8 minutes.
 
  • #4
Sure the speed of change can change. In classical physics, the speed of change is called acceleration - a first order [linear] change in speed v time. But the rate of change need not be linear, nor is it unphysical - in roller coaster design it is routine to consider second order changes in the speed of the speed of change. The technical term for this is 'jerk'. In geometry this can be compared to the difference between the area of a circle and volume of a sphere.
 
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  • #5
Chronos, I'm really surprised that such a thing like speed of change existed theoretically. But, why is there a limit (c) to this speed. Can't it be instantaneous.
 

FAQ: The Speed of Change: Centripetal Force

What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is a force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, pulling it towards the center of the circle. It is always directed towards the center of the circle and is necessary for an object to maintain circular motion.

How does centripetal force relate to the speed of change?

The speed of change is directly related to the magnitude of centripetal force. As the centripetal force increases, the speed of change also increases. This is because a stronger centripetal force allows the object to move in a tighter and faster circular path.

What factors affect the centripetal force?

The magnitude of centripetal force is affected by the mass, speed, and radius of the object in circular motion. The greater the mass and speed of the object, the greater the centripetal force needed to keep it in circular motion. Similarly, a smaller radius will require a greater centripetal force.

How is the speed of change calculated in relation to centripetal force?

The speed of change, or tangential velocity, can be calculated using the formula v = √(r x F) / m, where v is the tangential velocity, r is the radius of the circular path, F is the centripetal force, and m is the mass of the object.

Why is centripetal force important in understanding the speed of change?

Centripetal force is crucial in understanding the speed of change because it is responsible for keeping an object in circular motion. Without centripetal force, the object would move in a straight line and not experience any change in speed. It also helps us understand how different factors affect the speed of an object in circular motion.

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