Change in speed of satellite

AI Thread Summary
A satellite in a circular orbit around the sun requires a greater change in speed to escape the solar system than to fall into the sun. The escape velocity is calculated using the formula (2 GM/R)^0.5, which indicates the speed needed to break free from the sun's gravitational pull. If the satellite's speed decreases, its orbit shrinks, leading it to eventually fall into the sun. The satellite maintains its distance from the sun due to its orbital speed balancing gravitational pull. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for analyzing satellite motion in space.
rohanlol7
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a satellite is in circular orbit around the sun. which requires a greater change in speed: the satellite to fall to the sun or to escape the solar system

Homework Equations


f = gmm/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


Calculated the escape velocity as(2 GM/R)^0.5
how do i find the speed required so that it falls down to the sun ?
 
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Hi Rohan,

Escape velocity is a speed, not a change in speed...
You didn't use the
rohanlol7 said:
is in circular orbit around the sun.
at all !

What would happen if the satellite speed would be reduced ?
 
BvU said:
Hi Rohan,

Escape velocity is a speed, not a change in speed...
You didn't use the
at all !

What would happen if the satellite speed would be reduced ?
if the speed decreases the size of the orbit decreases and it'll eventually fall into the sun ?
 
Why does the satellite maintain its distance from the Sun while orbiting?
 

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