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A space shuttle astronaut is working outside the shuttle
Chapter 13, Problem 5CQ(choose chapter or problem)
QUESTION:
Problem 5CQ
A space shuttle astronaut is working outside the shuttle as it orbits the earth. If he drops a hammer, will it fall to earth? Explain why or why not.
Questions & Answers
QUESTION:
Problem 5CQ
A space shuttle astronaut is working outside the shuttle as it orbits the earth. If he drops a hammer, will it fall to earth? Explain why or why not.
ANSWER:
Step 1 of 1
The hammer will float near the shuttle. The shuttle, hammer and the astronaut have the same acceleration in the orbit (due to free fall towards the Earth). The hammer will move towards the Earth only if the astronaut apply a force on it.