Calculating Kinetic Energy Change of Earth's Orbit

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the change in kinetic energy of Earth's orbit around the Sun, with specific distances ranging from 1.474e8 km to 1.525e8 km. Participants confirm the use of the kinetic energy formula K = 0.5mv², while also emphasizing the need to determine the velocity (v) based on the elliptical nature of Earth's orbit. Additionally, the discussion highlights the application of Newton's law of universal gravitation to find acceleration (a) and relates it to the velocity of the Earth in its orbit.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy formula K = 0.5mv²
  • Knowledge of Newton's law of universal gravitation
  • Familiarity with elliptical orbits and their properties
  • Basic principles of motion in circular paths
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the velocity of Earth at varying distances using Kepler's laws
  • Explore the derivation of gravitational potential energy changes in elliptical orbits
  • Study the relationship between acceleration and velocity in orbital mechanics
  • Investigate the implications of orbital eccentricity on kinetic energy calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in celestial mechanics and energy calculations related to planetary motion.

lmf22
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kinetic energy...

The Earth's distance from the sun varies from 1.474e8 km to 1.525e8 km during the year. Take the Sun to be at rest.

Determine the difference in the Earth's kinetic energy.

Would I just use K=.5mv^2? If so what would v be?
If not, how would I set this up?

Thank you.
 
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Find the change in gravitational potential energy.
 
i think so.
Newton's law of universal gravitation to find a.
Motion in circular path although the orbit is an ellipse to relate a and v.
 

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