Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 8 - Think and Explain - Page 156-158: 100

Answer

The entire planet has the same rotational speed, but at the equator, the tangential speed of surface material is the highest. The material is pulled by gravity toward the center, but the high speed means that a stronger centripetal force (to keep the material moving in a circle) is required than if the material were located elsewhere. Gravity does win, but bulging occurs to increase the distance from the rotation axis (and relieve the need for too much centripetal force). An argument can also be made by appealing to the concept of fictitious force in a non-inertial rotating reference frame, pages 147-148.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.