A helicopter is flying vertically above a fixed point....i mean its fixed & it does not move.....but earth is moving.....so after some time(say 5-6hrs),why is it still above that point only?????
2007-09-01 22:52:39 · 5 answers · asked by gamer2kool 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Because the "fixed point" is moving right along with the Earth. As is the helicopter that's hovering over it. And the air that the helicopter is hovering in.
2007-09-01 22:59:04 · answer #1 · answered by skeptik 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is answer is related to the frame of reference.
Look at this way. The Earth rotates at x, even though the helicopter is "fixed" it still moves at x in the forward direction, or at the same speed "forward" as the earth. In relation to the Earth the helicopter will remain over the same point on earth but if you were an alien in your spaceship looking at the helicopter you would see it move at x.
Confused?
2007-09-02 06:21:05 · answer #2 · answered by rsraszka 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The previous poster is right, furthermore even without air the helicopter (which would have to be a spaceship) won't move from the vertical of the fixed point.
The reason is that when it is on the ground it is travelling circles at the same speed as the planet rotates; after the lift-off gravity attraction pull him toward the planet's core keeping it on a circular trajectory (has it happens when you circle a ball attached to a string over your head).
2007-09-02 06:15:41 · answer #3 · answered by paulatz2 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You mean to say the helicopter is 'hovering'? But it is in the atmosphere only. When the earth rotates the atmosphere also rotates with the same speed. So it rotates with the earth. Otherwise. if you hover for twelve hours and land you will be in the other side of the globe.
2007-09-02 09:57:13 · answer #4 · answered by Joymash 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Adjustment made by the pilot.
2007-09-06 01:32:05 · answer #5 · answered by cpuguy_1 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋