QJEEAdv08Ph52dd: JEE Advanced 2008 Physics - Class 11 JEEAdv08Ph52dd Solution: STATEMENT - 1 An astronaut in an orbiting space station above…
STATEMENT - 1
An astronaut in an orbiting space station above the Earth experiences weightlessness.
and
STATEMENT - 2
An object moving around the Earth under the influence of Earth's gravitational force is in a state of 'free-fall'.
Multiple Choice Options
- A Statement - 1 is True, Statement - 2 is True; Statement - 2 is a correct explanation for Statement - 1
- B Statement - 1 is True, Statement - 2 is True; Statement - 2 is NOT a correct explanation for Statement - 1
- C Statement - 1 is True, Statement - 2 is False
- D Statement - 1 is False, Statement - 2 is True
Step-by-Step Verified Solution
1st Method : The normal force exerted by the astronaut on the orbiting space station is zero. Therefore, the apparent weight of astronaut in the orbiting space station is zero. Astronaut is called in a state of weightlessness. Why because astronaut as well as space ship are free falling bodies. Statement - I is true, Statement - 2 is true and Statement - 2 is the correct explanation of Statement - 1.
2nd method : For the body to follow circular path, there must be a centripetal force. Here the astronaut is inside the satellites which is revolving around the earth under the influence of the earth's gravitation. Thus, the earth's gravitation acts as a centripetal force and the net force on the astronaut is zero.
Statement - 2 is right explanation of 1.