Can We Determine the Mass of Mercury and Venus Using Space Probe Orbits?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter chetan
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    Mercury Venus Weight
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the methods for determining the masses of Mercury and Venus, focusing on empirical approaches rather than direct measurements. The scope includes theoretical considerations and potential applications of space probe orbits.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the mass of Venus can be found easily through a simple Google search, providing a specific value.
  • Another participant clarifies that the original question likely pertains to empirical methods for determining the masses of Venus and Mercury, noting the absence of moons for these planets.
  • A different viewpoint proposes the use of artificial satellites as a potential method for measuring the masses, although the participant expresses uncertainty about this approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the methods for determining the masses of Mercury and Venus, with some suggesting straightforward online searches while others seek more empirical approaches.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the limitations of relying solely on online information for scientific measurements and the challenges posed by the lack of natural satellites for the planets in question.

chetan
How to find out the mass of Mercury & Venus
 
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Originally posted by chetan
How to find out the mass of Mercury & Venus

Google gives the answeer direct. Type in Venus mass and you get the answer:
mass of Venus = 4.86900 × 10^24 kilograms

Google is VERY powerful and has many functions that you may be aware of... try it!
 
I meant to say 'may NOT of heard of..'

It converts units too... type in 'kilogram to pounds' (without the quotes and it gives you the conversion factor...

Google rocks!
 
I think chetan meant, "How do we find the masses of Venus and Mercury empirically?" They don't have moons of course so you can't use that method. My guess is that maybe we use artificial satellites to measure their masses. Honestly, I don't know though.
Anyone else?
 

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