- #1
k1point618
- 25
- 0
Homework Statement
Two satellites are launched at a distance R from a planet of negligible radius. (Yes, that's what the problem says...) Both satellites are launched in the tangential direction. the first satellite launches correctly at a speed [tex]v_0[/tex] and enters a circular orbit. The second satellite, however, is launched at a speed [tex]\frac{1}{2}v_0[/tex] . What is the minimum distance between the second satellite and the planet over the course of its orbit?
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
I thought about using energy. The two satellites both start out with the same potential energy but different kinetic energy.
So satellite one's TME: [tex]-\frac{GMm}{R} + \frac{1}{2}mv_0^2[/tex]
where as satellite two's TME:[tex]-\frac{GMm}{R} + \frac{1}{8}mv_0^2[/tex]
And the second satellite's minimum distance is when its potential is the least...
Somehow I think this problem might relate to angular momentum... L = mvr, but not exactly sure.
THANK YOU =D