Calculate the average speed in km/h of earth assuming a circular path

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average speed of Earth in km/h, assuming a circular orbit around the Sun. Participants explore the mathematical approach to the problem, including the relevant equations and the necessary parameters for the calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the problem and the meaning of the variables in the equation provided.
  • Another participant questions the clarity of the equation, suggesting it should be written as 2πr instead of 2TTr.
  • There is a discussion about the time it takes for Earth to orbit the Sun, with one participant noting it is one year.
  • Some participants clarify that the average distance from the Earth to the Sun is 1.5 x 10^8 km and discuss how this fits into the equation.
  • One participant points out that assuming a circular orbit is a simplification, but it is a reasonable approximation for basic calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the variables in the equation or the specific approach to solving the problem. Multiple viewpoints on the correct formulation and assumptions remain present.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the definition of variables in the equation and the measurement of time in the context of Earth's orbit. The discussion highlights the need for clarity in mathematical expressions and assumptions made in the problem.

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I'm stuck on this math problem for my physics class, I'm sure it's not that difficult, but it confuses me:

The Average distance between the Earth and the sun is 1.50 X 10^8 km.
a. Calculate the average speed in km/h of Earth assuming a circular path about the sun. Use the equation v= 2TTr/T.
b. Convert your answer from km/h to m/s. Show all units.
 
Last edited:
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Well, what have you tried? Have you tried using the equation for the first part? Do you know what each symbol represents? Please note that you must show working before we can help you with homework/coursework questions-- forum rules.
 
Oh, ok.

Um...let's see...I know what the symbols stand for, it's just that I don't know if by r in this problem means the radius of the earth, and I don't even know what the time it takes.
 
What figure do you have? Isn't it 1.5x10^8. Where does that fit in? The equation ought to have been copied better, its 2\pi r, where you seem to have copied 2TTr.

How is time measured? What time is important here?
 
Well, time is measured in seconds, but in this case, they want it in hours, right? The important time in this case is how long it will take for the Earth to go around the sun if their distance is 1.5x10^8.
 
You are making progress, keep going!
 
Here's a hint! The time it takes the Earth to go around the sun is one year!

"Use the equation v= 2TTr/T" Frankly, this doesn't make much sense. You say that you know what the symbols mean but you haven't told us. I would think that
TTr/T= Tr. ??
 
I'm pretty sure that by TT, the OP means \pi.

In order to use the equation provided to gain the correct result, is is necessary to assume that Earth is in a circular orbit around the Sun. This is not exactly true, but it is a viable approximation for basic purposes.

With this in mind, consider how the numerator in the equation relates to Earth's orbit around the Sun.
 

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