Centripetal motion, find radius - which solution is correct?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the radius of Saturn's orbit around the Sun using two different methods. The first method uses the planet's speed and orbital period, while the second method applies the universal law of gravitation. Both methods yield different values, but it is revealed that the problem maker had given an incorrect orbital period of 19 years instead of the correct value of 29 years. As a result, the discrepancy between the two values is resolved.
  • #1
Tyrannosaurus_
41
2

Homework Statement


The planet Saturn will orbit the Sun every 19 Earth years (= 599 184 000 seconds). Assume Saturn travels on a circular orbit with a speed of 9 690m/s. What is the radius of the orbit of Saturn?

I can solve this in two different ways, and get two different values. Which is the correct approach, & why?

2. Homework Equations & attempt at solution.

T = (2πr)/V - that is, period is 2π*radius over speed.,
so, r = (T*V)/2π
so, radius = 9.24 x 1011m

However, if, the centripetal forces equals the universal law of gravitation, that is,
Fc = Fg
(m*v2)/r = (Gm1m2)/r2
r = (G*msun)/v2
r = [(6.67x10-11)(1.99x1030kg)]/(9690m/s2)
r = 1.41 x 1012m

So, why the difference? What applies, and what doesn't apply and why?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Tyrannosaurus_ said:

Homework Statement


The planet Saturn will orbit the Sun every 19 Earth years (= 599 184 000 seconds). Assume Saturn travels on a circular orbit with a speed of 9 690m/s. What is the radius of the orbit of Saturn?

I can solve this in two different ways, and get two different values. Which is the correct approach, & why?

2. Homework Equations & attempt at solution.

T = (2πr)/V - that is, period is 2π*radius over speed.,
so, r = (T*V)/2π
so, radius = 9.24 x 1011m

However, if, the centripetal forces equals the universal law of gravitation, that is,
Fc = Fg
(m*v2)/r = (Gm1m2)/r2
r = (G*msun)/v2
r = [(6.67x10-11)(1.99x1030kg)]/(9690m/s2)
r = 1.41 x 1012m

So, why the difference? What applies, and what doesn't apply and why?

Thanks!
Both of your methods are correct, but the problem maker gave wrong orbital period. It is 29 years, instead of 19.
 
  • Like
Likes Tyrannosaurus_
  • #3
ehild said:
Both of your methods are correct, but the problem maker gave wrong orbital period. It is 29 years, instead of 19.
Thanks so much! I was going crazy!
 

1. What is centripetal motion?

Centripetal motion is the type of motion in which an object moves along a circular path with a constant speed. It is always directed towards the center of the circle.

2. How is the radius of centripetal motion calculated?

The radius of centripetal motion can be calculated using the formula r = v^2 / a, where r is the radius, v is the velocity, and a is the centripetal acceleration.

3. What is the difference between tangential velocity and centripetal acceleration?

Tangential velocity is the speed at which an object is moving along the circular path, while centripetal acceleration is the acceleration towards the center of the circle. They are perpendicular to each other.

4. What are the units of measurement for centripetal acceleration?

The units of measurement for centripetal acceleration are meters per second squared (m/s^2).

5. How do you determine which solution for finding the radius in centripetal motion is correct?

The correct solution for finding the radius in centripetal motion can be determined by checking if the units of measurement match the given values and if the direction of the velocity and acceleration are consistent with the direction of the motion. Additionally, the solution should be physically realistic.

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