Binary Stars: Equal Mass, 350 Million km Separation, 5.4 Earth Years Orbit".

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In a binary star system with two equal mass stars, the stars are separated by 350 million km and complete an orbit every 5.4 Earth years. A participant calculated a mass of 1.1x10^29 but found it to be incorrect. The discussion emphasizes the need for the correct orbital relationship equation for two bodies in rotation. Participants are encouraged to refer to their study materials for the necessary equations to solve the problem accurately.
RileyAllen
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Suppose that a binary-star system consists of two stars of equal mass. They are observed to be separated by 350 million {\rm km} and take 5.4 Earth years to orbit about a point midway between them.

I got 1.1x10^29 as my answer, but it is incorrect. Can anyone help me out?
 
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RileyAllen said:
Suppose that a binary-star system consists of two stars of equal mass. They are observed to be separated by 350 million {\rm km} and take 5.4 Earth years to orbit about a point midway between them.

I got 1.1x10^29 as my answer, but it is incorrect. Can anyone help me out?

You're looking for the orbital relationship for a two body rotating about themselves.

Do you have that equation in the book you are studying?
 

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