artificial gravity. This can be done by adjusting the angular speed of the space station, so the centripetal acceleration at an astronaut's feet equals g, the magnitude of the acceleration due to the earth's gravity. If such an adjustment is made, what will be true about the acceleration at the astronaut's head due to the artificial gravity?

Question

Geography

Karsyn Perry

22 October, 02:31

artificial gravity. This can be done by adjusting the angular speed of the space station, so the centripetal acceleration at an astronaut's feet equals g, the magnitude of the acceleration due to the earth's gravity. If such an adjustment is made, what will be true about the acceleration at the astronaut's head due to the artificial gravity?

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Lillianna Hess · Answer 1

By restraining movement of the head, the nausea-inducing effects of Coriolis forces due to Artificial gravity can also be mitigated

Explanation:

If an astronaut inside a rotating artificial gravity environment moves towards or away from the axis of rotation, he or she will feel a force pushing him or her towards or away from the direction of spin. These forces act on the inner ear and can cause dizziness, nausea and disorientation.

Lengthening the period of rotation (slower spin rate) reduces the Coriolis force and its effects.

It is generally believed that at 2 rpm or less, no adverse effects from the Coriolis forces will occur, although humans have been shown to adapt to rates as high as 23 rpm.

It is not yet known whether very long exposures to high levels of Coriolis forces can increase the likelihood of becoming accustomed.