How to Calculate Gravitational Force in Orbital and Spherical Systems?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating gravitational force using the formula Fg=(Gm1*m2)/R^2 for a satellite in orbit and two uniform spheres. It is established that when calculating the gravitational force between a satellite and Earth, the total distance R should include both the Earth's radius and the satellite's altitude above the surface. Additionally, for two spheres in contact, the distance R is defined as the distance between their centers of mass, which simplifies to the sum of their radii when one mass is significantly larger than the other.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force formula Fg=(Gm1*m2)/R^2
  • Knowledge of concepts related to center of mass
  • Familiarity with spherical geometry and properties
  • Basic principles of orbital mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of gravitational force in orbital mechanics
  • Study the implications of point mass approximation in gravitational calculations
  • Explore the effects of varying distances on gravitational attraction
  • Learn about the center of mass calculations for composite bodies
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, engineers working on satellite technology, and anyone interested in gravitational calculations in both orbital and spherical systems.

ACLerok
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i am given a problem where a satellite in orbit is a certain distance from the surface of the earth. It then gives the radius of the earth. I realize i have to use the forumula: Fg=(Gm1*m2)/R^2
can i just use the distance from the surface of Earth to the satellite as R or do i add the radius of the Earth to it?

And also.. anyone kind enough to give me some hints on how to solve this simple problem??

Two uniform spheres, each with mass M and radius R , touch one another.
What is the magnitude of their gravitational force of attraction?
 
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R is the distance from the center of m2 to the center of m1, but if m2 is much, much larger than m1 (making m1 basically a point mass), then the distance from the surface of m1 to the center of m1 can be disregarded.
 
For all these problems, reduce the bodies to point particles at the centre of mass of the body. R would be the distance between the two CoMs. Then you do indeed need to add the radius and the height for R.
 

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