Orbital speed of an object in a circular orbit

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the orbital speed at any point on a central force orbit, given the speed at apogee and the angle B from the x-axis. The equations used include L = mvr and the law of cosines to solve for r in terms of B. The correct equation for v(B) is also provided.
  • #1
Natchanon
31
3

Homework Statement


Consider a central force is attractive but which passes through the force center. In other words, consider an orbit of radius a which is centered at (a,0), with the force center at the origin
c.) Suppose the speed at the apogee is v0 Find the oribital speed v as a function of angle B, defined as the angle from the x-axis swept by a radial line from the center of the orbit (not the origin)

Homework Equations


L = mvr

The Attempt at a Solution


I let L at apogee equal l at any point. So, m v_0 2a = m v(B) r, where I use law of cosines to write r in term of B. and V(B) = 2*V_0 / sqrt( 2*(1-cos(pi - B) ). But I'm not sure if this is correct because v and r are perpendicular at apogee, but not at other points.
 
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  • #2
You need some more relevant equations to deal with this. Writing down equations for ##\ddot x## and ##\ddot y## is a start :rolleyes:
 

1. What is the orbital speed of an object in a circular orbit?

The orbital speed of an object in a circular orbit is the velocity at which it moves around a central body, such as a planet or star, in a perfectly circular path. This speed is constant and can be calculated using the equation: v = √(Gm/r), where G is the gravitational constant, m is the mass of the central body, and r is the distance between the object and the central body.

2. How does the mass of the central body affect the orbital speed of an object?

The mass of the central body has a direct impact on the orbital speed of an object. The greater the mass of the central body, the stronger the gravitational pull it exerts on the object, resulting in a higher orbital speed. This is because the gravitational force is directly proportional to the mass of the central body, according to Newton's law of universal gravitation.

3. Does the distance between the object and the central body affect its orbital speed?

Yes, the distance between the object and the central body also plays a role in determining the orbital speed. As the distance increases, the gravitational force decreases, resulting in a lower orbital speed. This is because the gravitational force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between two objects. Therefore, the farther an object is from the central body, the slower its orbital speed will be.

4. Can the orbital speed of an object change?

Yes, the orbital speed of an object can change. This can happen due to various factors such as changes in the mass of the central body or the distance between the object and the central body. Additionally, external forces, such as the gravitational pull of other nearby objects, can also influence the orbital speed of an object.

5. Why is the orbital speed of an object important?

The orbital speed of an object is important because it determines the stability and trajectory of its orbit around the central body. It also plays a crucial role in determining the energy required for a spacecraft to enter or exit an orbit, making it a crucial factor in space missions and satellite operations. Understanding the orbital speed of objects in space is essential for accurately predicting and planning their movements.

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