Satellite, magnitude/acceleration problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude of gravitational acceleration for a satellite in a circular orbit at a height of 3.59 x 107 meters above the Earth's surface. The formula F = G(m1*m2)/r2 was mentioned, but the user struggled with the unknown mass of the satellite. The correct approach involves using the gravitational acceleration formula g = G*M/r2, where M is the mass of the Earth and r is the distance from the center of the Earth to the satellite. This method allows for the calculation of gravitational acceleration without needing the satellite's mass.

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  • Understanding of Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation
  • Familiarity with gravitational constant (G)
  • Knowledge of Earth's mass (M)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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Satellites are placed in a circular orbit that is 3.59*10^7 m above surface of earth. What is the magnitude of the acceleration due to gravity at this distance? A formula to use or the work would be appreciated. Thanks.
 
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I tried using F=G(m1*m2)/r^2. i didnt know the mass of the satellitle though so i was left with multple variables. I also tried using g, but that didnt work. I guess I really don't know how to start when the satellite has an unknown weight.
 

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