Calculation-based Questions

1. Calculate the centripetal acceleration of the Earth in its orbit around the Sun, and
the net force exerted on the Earth. What exerts this force on the Earth? Assume that
the Earth’s orbit is a circle of radius 1.5x1011m. You may need to look other constants
up on the Internet or data booklet.
[3 marks]

2. A horizontal force of 210N is exerted on a 2.0kg discus as it rotates uniformly in a

horizontal circle (at arm’s length) of radius 0.90m. Calculate the speed of the discus.
[2 marks]

3. Suppose the space shuttle in orbit 400km from the Earth’s surface, and circles the
Earth about once every 90 minutes. Find the centripetal acceleration of the space
shuttle in its orbit. Express your answer in terms of g, the gravitational acceleration at
the Earth’s surface. You may need to look up some other constants on the Internet.
[3 marks]
4. A 0.45kg ball, attached to the end of a horizontal cord, is rotated in a circle of
radius 1.3m on a frictionless horizontal surface. If the cord will break when the
tension in it exceeds 75N, what is the maximum speed the ball can have?