Effect of Earth's Rotation on Acceleration due to Gravity at Equator

Gravity is a fundamental force of nature that attracts objects towards the center of the Earth. The acceleration due to gravity (g) is the acceleration experienced by an object due to the gravitational force of the Earth. The value of g varies with the distance from the Earth's center, the altitude, and the latitude of the location.

Effect of Earth's Rotation on g

The Earth rotates on its axis from west to east. This rotation causes a centrifugal force that opposes the gravitational force of the Earth. At the equator, this centrifugal force is maximum because the velocity of rotation is highest. This centrifugal force reduces the effective gravitational force acting on objects at the equator.

Effect on g if Earth Stops Rotating

If the Earth stops rotating suddenly, the centrifugal force acting at the equator will disappear, and the effective gravitational force will increase. Hence, the value of g at the equator will increase.

Calculation of the New Value of g

The acceleration due to gravity at the equator is currently approximately 9.78 m/s². If the Earth stops rotating, the value of g at the equator will increase by 0.33 m/s². The new value of g at the equator will be approximately 10.11 m/s².

Conclusion

In conclusion, if the Earth stops rotating, the value of g at the equator will increase. This is because the centrifugal force that opposes gravity will disappear, and the effective gravitational force will increase.

The value of g will increase except at the poles