Understanding the Work Needed to Escape a Gravitational Pull

In summary, the conversation discusses the integration of Newton's law of universal gravitation with respect to r, which leads to the work-energy theorem. The correct integration results in the potential energy, not the work needed to escape gravitational pull. The correct formula is W = ΔU = GMm/r2 - GMm/r1.
  • #1
Mr-R
123
23
Hello everyone,
What does it mean if I integrate Newton's law of universal gravitation with respect to r.
F= GMm/r^2 become 3GMm/r^3 . Is this the work needed to escape a gravitational pull ?

Thank you
 
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  • #2
Mr-R said:
Hello everyone,
What does it mean if I integrate Newton's law of universal gravitation with respect to r.
F= GMm/r^2 become 3GMm/r^3 . Is this the work needed to escape a gravitational pull ?

Thank you
Dear Mr-R. Welcome to Physics Forums.

You integrated incorrectly. Please try again.
 
  • #3
This is the work-energy theorem.

$$\int ^b _a \vec{F} \cdot d \vec{r} = \Delta KE = W $$

If you integrate ##\frac{GMm}{r^2}## you get the potential energy.

Try integrating it again correctly.
 
  • #4
Chestermiller said:
Dear Mr-R. Welcome to Physics Forums.

You integrated incorrectly. Please try again.

Oh that's quiet embarrassing. It should be = GMm/r which is the work. Thank you very much.
 
  • #5
Mr-R said:
Oh that's quiet embarrassing. It should be = GMm/r which is the work. Thank you very much.

No, that's potential energy. In this case, ## W = \Delta U = \frac{GMm}{r_2}- \frac{GMm}{r_1}##
 

1. What is Newton's law of motion?

Newton's law of motion is a fundamental principle of physics that describes the relationship between an object's motion and the forces acting upon it. It states that an object will remain at rest or continue moving at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force.

2. How can Newton's law be integrated into scientific experiments?

Newton's law can be integrated into scientific experiments by using it as a framework for understanding and predicting the motion of objects. It can also be used to design experiments that test the effects of different forces on an object's motion.

3. What is the significance of integrating Newton's law in scientific research?

Integrating Newton's law in scientific research allows for a better understanding of the fundamental principles of motion and how forces interact with objects. This knowledge is crucial in many fields of science, such as engineering, physics, and astronomy.

4. Can Newton's law be applied to all types of motion?

Yes, Newton's law can be applied to all types of motion, including linear, rotational, and orbital motion. It is a universal law that applies to all objects, regardless of their size or mass.

5. Are there any limitations to Newton's law?

While Newton's law is an extremely useful and accurate principle, it does have limitations. It is only applicable in situations where there are no external forces acting on an object, and it does not take into account the effects of relativity and quantum mechanics.

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