Re: [Phys-l] Centrifugal redux

[Brian Whatcott <betwys1@sbcglobal.net>]

Michael Porter wrote:
> Is it time to mention Mach's Principle yet? I'm still unsteady on that  
> one.
>
> Short version:
> I'm floating in space, holding some weights at arm's length.
> I'm spinning (I can tell by looking at the stars), and I feel the  
> weights tugging outwards as I spin.
> Now, using my god-like powers, I make the rest of the universe  
> disappear (I engineer it so that everything winks out simultaneously,  
> despite the differences in distance -- god-like powers, and all that).
> I now have no external reference to tell me I'm spinning. Do the  
> weights still tug outwards?
> Can I achieve the same effect by closing my eyes?  ;-)
>
> Michael Porter
This is SUCH an interesting topic for experimental verification.
The way that two fast spinning gyros with orthogonal axes fix
a direction in inertial space - in deep space, or on Earth, and
relativity of motion be damned!.

If I swamp the distant Machian masses with four close lead balls,
will the axes of the spinning gyros shift when I swiftly distance
the plumb bobs?
I believe they won't - but I am thinking it's open to
experimental verification.

BrianW