Newton versus Hooke
Fall to Earth
Fall to Earth simulation
The simulation shows the motion of an object in both the rotating
frame of the Earth (on the left) and an inertial frame (on the
right). The simulation uses the following assumptions:
- Object is released from a point 0.5 Earth radii above Earth's equator.
- Force on object outside of Earth is an inverse square force
toward Earth's center.
- No resistance on object while it is outside of Earth.
- Earth rotates at a rate of 5 rotations per day.
- Object stops when it hits Earth's surface.
Todd K. Timberlake (ttimberlake@berry.edu)