Calculate the speed of a satellite

In summary, the question asks for the speed and time period of a satellite revolving around the Earth at a height of 600 km, with given values for the radius and mass of the Earth. The attempt at a solution involves dividing the radius of the Earth by the height of the satellite, but this does not account for units. The distance of the satellite from the center of the Earth, gravitational pull, acceleration, and angular speed are important factors to consider in solving this problem.
  • #1
Eros
5
0

Homework Statement


A satellite is revolving round the Earth at a height of 600 Km. Find the speed of the
satellite and the time period of the satellite, if the radius of the Earth is 6400 km, and
mass of the Earth = 6*10^24 kg.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Well this is what i thought of till now...
we need to work out the time it takes to get round the earth..

6400/600 = 10.6666 (recurring). so 10 hours?...opps

another look
velocity = distance /time...

is time = timeperiod... I'm confused .. lol help please
 
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  • #2
Why are you dividing the radius of the Earth by the height of the satelite? Did you even think about what units you have?

What is the distance of the satellite from the center of the earth? What is the gravitational pull on the satellite at that height? What is the acceleration due to that pull? What angular speed does that correspond to?
 
  • #3
distance between satellite and Earth is 600m... umm center of the Earth is not given prbly 6400/2? tht's the question given... nothin else i mean abt gravitational pull , angular speed etc.
 

1. How do you calculate the speed of a satellite?

The speed of a satellite can be calculated using the formula v = √(GM/R), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the central body (such as the Earth), and R is the distance between the satellite and the central body.

2. What is the unit of measurement for satellite speed?

The unit of measurement for satellite speed is typically meters per second (m/s).

3. Is the speed of a satellite constant?

No, the speed of a satellite is not constant. It depends on its distance from the central body and can change as the satellite orbits around the central body.

4. How does the speed of a satellite affect its orbit?

The speed of a satellite determines the shape and size of its orbit. A faster speed will result in a larger orbit, while a slower speed will result in a smaller orbit.

5. Can the speed of a satellite be increased or decreased?

Yes, the speed of a satellite can be increased or decreased by changing its altitude or using thrusters. However, the changes in speed must be carefully calculated to maintain a stable orbit.

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