Orbital speed of a satellite.

In summary, The orbital speed of a satellite in circular orbit above the Earth at an altitude of 7000 km can be calculated using the equation v = √(GM/R), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of Earth, and R is the radius of Earth. The centrifugal force and gravitational force are balanced in orbit, with the centrifugal force depending on the angular speed and radius. To calculate the orbital speed, the first step is to find the gravitational force using the equation Fg = GM/R^2 and then use the equation mv^2/r to solve for v.
  • #1
JohnnyB212
14
0

Homework Statement



A satellite is in circular orbit above the Earth at an altitude of 7000 km. What is the orbital speed of the satellite?

Homework Equations



Well, knowing that the mass of Earth of 5.98 X 10^24 kg

And the radius of Earth is 6.38 x 10^6 m
What equation do I start with here? The "speed" portion is what's getting me. :frown:
 
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  • #2
Orbit means that the gravitational force inward and the centrifugal force outward are balanced. The centrifugal force depends on the angular speed and this with the radius will give you the speed.
 
  • #3
First you need to find the Fg and that would be using the GM/R^2 formula once u have Fg you can get v using mv^2/r
 

What is the orbital speed of a satellite?

The orbital speed of a satellite is the speed at which it travels around a larger object, such as a planet or moon, in its orbit. It is determined by the gravitational pull of the larger object and the distance between the two bodies.

How is the orbital speed of a satellite calculated?

The orbital speed of a satellite can be calculated using the formula v = √(GM/r), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the larger object, and r is the distance between the two bodies.

What factors affect the orbital speed of a satellite?

The orbital speed of a satellite can be affected by the mass of the larger object, the distance between the two bodies, and any external forces such as atmospheric drag or gravitational interactions with other objects.

What is the difference between orbital speed and escape velocity?

Orbital speed is the speed at which a satellite travels around a larger object in a stable orbit, while escape velocity is the minimum speed required for an object to break free from the gravitational pull of the larger object and escape into space.

Is the orbital speed of a satellite constant?

No, the orbital speed of a satellite can vary depending on its altitude and the gravitational forces acting on it. However, as long as the satellite remains in a stable orbit, its orbital speed will remain relatively constant.

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