Asteroid Collision: Calculating Impact Speed

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An asteroid traveling at 12 km/s is 10r away from Earth, prompting a discussion on calculating its impact speed. The gravitational potential energy formula U = -Gm[E]m / r is mentioned, but participants emphasize the need for the original poster to show effort in solving the problem. Without specific values for constants like r or G, the problem cannot be adequately addressed. Additionally, if the asteroid is moving away from Earth, the impact speed calculation becomes irrelevant. Clearer parameters and initial calculations are necessary for a meaningful discussion on impact speed.
Willis2833
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1. An asteroid is 10r away from the earth, and traveling at a speed of 12 km/s. What is the impact speed of the asteroid when it hits the earth?2. Gravitation problem: U = -Gm[E]m / r ...I think3. I've been looking in my book and online and cannot figure it out, please help!
 
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Willis2833, we'd really like to help, but the Rules at PF state the OP must show some effort at solving the problem posted. Unfortunately, 'I cannot figure it out,' isn't good enough. I mean, you should write down some numbers at least, or the value of the constants like r or G, or Me.
 
Surely there is not enough information to answer the question.

If the asteroid's speed is away from Earth, then the answer is: "not applicable".
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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