Calculate linear momentum of earth

In summary, to calculate the linear momentum of the Earth, we can use the formula P=mv and first find the tangential velocity by dividing the distance traveled around the sun (2*pi*R) by the time it takes (365 days * 24 hours * 60 minutes * 60 seconds). This gives us a tangential velocity of 29,806 m/s. Plugging this into the formula, we get a momentum of 1.78*10^29 kg*m/s.
  • #1
**Mariam**
46
1

Homework Statement


The mass of the Earth is 5.972 x 10^24 kg and its orbital radius is an average of 1.496 x 10^11 m. Calculate its linear momentum.

Homework Equations


P=mv

The Attempt at a Solution


I am not sure how to start?
Given:
mass= 5.972*10^24 kg
Radius(to travel around sun): 1.496*10^11 m
To find:
Tangential velocity and then use the p=mv formula??
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
**Mariam** said:
To find:
Tangential velocity and then use the p=mv formula??

Yes. How far does the Earth travel in going around the sun once? How long does this take?
 
  • #3
TSny said:
Yes. How far does the Earth travel in going around the sun once? How long does this take?

Oh, sorry I missed that we need time and then we can assume that charts travels in a circle so we find displacement then velocity...

So here is what I did:
Time=365 days*24hour*60min*60sec= 31,536,000 sec
Distance traveled= 2*pi*R= 9.4*10^11 m
Velocity= 29,806 m/s (this is tangential velocity so it is a linear velocity)
Momentum=mv= 1.78*10^29 kg*m/s
 
  • #4
That looks right.
 
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Likes **Mariam**

Related to Calculate linear momentum of earth

1. How is linear momentum of Earth calculated?

The linear momentum of Earth can be calculated by multiplying the mass of Earth by its velocity. The mass of Earth is approximately 5.972 x 10^24 kg, and its velocity is approximately 29.78 km/s. Using this information, we can calculate the linear momentum of Earth to be approximately 1.784 x 10^29 kg*m/s.

2. What is the formula for calculating linear momentum?

The formula for calculating linear momentum is p = mv, where p is the linear momentum, m is the mass, and v is the velocity. This formula applies to all objects, including Earth.

3. Why is it important to calculate the linear momentum of Earth?

Calculating the linear momentum of Earth is important because it helps us understand the motion and behavior of our planet. It also plays a role in various scientific calculations and theories, such as orbital mechanics and the conservation of momentum.

4. How does the linear momentum of Earth affect its orbit around the sun?

The linear momentum of Earth affects its orbit around the sun in that it keeps the planet moving in a straight line at a constant speed. This linear momentum, along with the gravitational pull of the sun, allows Earth to maintain its elliptical orbit around the sun.

5. Can the linear momentum of Earth change over time?

Yes, the linear momentum of Earth can change over time due to various factors such as changes in Earth's velocity, mass, or direction of motion. However, the total linear momentum of Earth and all its orbiting bodies remains constant due to the conservation of momentum.

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