In order to simulate weightlessness for astronauts in training, they are flown in a vertical circle. If the passengers are to experience weightlessness, how fast should an airplane be moving at the top of a vertical circle with a radius of 2.50 km?
A) 157 m/s
B) 314 m/s
C) 78.5 m/s
D) 255 m/s
E) 510 m/s

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To experience weightlessness at the top of the circle, the centripetal force must equal gravitational force. Using the formula v = sqrt(g*r), where g = 9.8 m/s² and r = 2500 m, the speed v is approximately 157 m/s.

In Order to Simulate Weightlessness for Astronauts in Training, They