In Pole to Pole, an early science fiction story by George Griffith, three explorers attempt to travel by capsule through a naturally formed (and, of course, fictional) tunnel directly from the south pole to the north pole. According to the story, as the capsule approaches Earth's center, the gravitational force on the explorers becomes alarmingly large and then, exactly at the center, it suddenly but only momentarily disappears. Then the capsule travels through the second half of the tunnel, to the north pole. With what speed would mail pass through the center of Earth if falling in this tunnel? Ignore air resistance.

In Pole to Pole, an early science fiction story by George Griffith, three explorers attempt to travel by capsule through a naturally formed (and, of course, fictional) tunnel directly from the south pole to the north pole. According to the story, as the capsule approaches Earth's center, the gravitational force on the explorers becomes alarmingly large and then, exactly at the center, it suddenly but only momentarily disappears. Then the capsule travels through the second half of the tunnel, to the north pole. With what speed would mail pass through the center of Earth if falling in this tunnel? Ignore air resistance.

Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Foundations and Connections

1st Edition

ISBN:9781133939146

Author:Katz, Debora M.

Publisher:Katz, Debora M.

Chapter7: Gravity

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 59PQ

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