Natural Disaster: Tornado Frequency Calculation
Understanding the frequency of a tornado can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of this powerful natural disaster. When we talk about the frequency of a tornado, we are essentially discussing how many full rotations or revolutions it completes in a given amount of time. This measure helps us grasp the speed at which the tornado is spinning, which is crucial for predicting its behavior and potential impact on the surrounding area.
In this particular scenario, we are given specific data about the tornado: a diameter of 71 meters and wind speed of 230 km/h. To determine the frequency in revolutions per second, we need to follow a series of calculations based on the given information.
Calculating the Frequency of the Tornado:
1. Radius Calculation: First, we find the radius of the tornado by dividing the diameter by 2. In this case, the radius is 71 meters / 2 = 35.5 meters.
2. Circumference Calculation: The next step is to calculate the circumference of the tornado. This can be done using the formula 2πr, where r is the radius. Substituting the radius value (35.5 meters) into the formula gives us a circumference of approximately 223.10 meters.
3. Wind Speed Conversion: Given that the wind speed is 230 km/h, we need to convert this to meters per second for consistency. Dividing 230 km/h by 3.6 gives us a wind speed of approximately 63.89 m/s.
4. Time Calculation: To determine the time taken for one full revolution of the tornado, we divide the circumference by the wind speed. This calculation yields a time of approximately 3.49 seconds for one revolution.
5. Frequency Calculation: Finally, to find the frequency of the tornado in revolutions per second, we take the reciprocal of the time calculated. Therefore, the frequency is 1 / 3.49 s, which equals approximately 0.286 revolutions per second.
By understanding the frequency of a tornado, we can gain a deeper appreciation for its power and destructive potential. This calculation highlights the incredible speed at which these natural phenomena can rotate, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and safety measures in tornado-prone areas.