Calculating Tension in a Hypothetical Moon-Earth System

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a hypothetical cable holding the Moon in orbit around the Earth, rather than relying on gravitational forces. The relevant equations include F=ma, a=v^2/r, and v=2πr/T. The user derived a formula for tension as F=m((2πr/T)^2)/r but encountered a discrepancy between their calculated tension of 9.08x10^20 N and the book's answer of 2.01x10^20 N. The user is encouraged to present their calculations step-by-step to identify potential errors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Familiarity with circular motion equations (a=v^2/r)
  • Knowledge of orbital mechanics and period calculations (v=2πr/T)
  • Ability to perform algebraic substitutions in physics equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of tension in circular motion scenarios
  • Learn how to apply Newton's laws to non-gravitational systems
  • Investigate common pitfalls in physics calculations, particularly in orbital mechanics
  • Explore the implications of massless cables in theoretical physics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and orbital dynamics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to tension and circular motion.

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Homework Statement


Suppose the moon were held in its orbit not by gravity but by a massless cable attached to the center of the earth. Find the tension in the cable.

Homework Equations


F=ma
a=v^2/r
v=2πr/T

(since the pictures aren't working, I'm just going to post the url to the image) (http://imgur.com/Ktj98f6 ) All the numbers I used are from the back of the book, shown here. (I used the period, mass and mean radius shown in the image)

The Attempt at a Solution


From all the equations, I figured that the new formula using substitution would be F=m((2πr/T)^2)/r) (http://imgur.com/e7QMdTG )

Now the answer at the back of the book says 2.01x10^20, but I keep getting 9.08x10^20. I've rechecked my math hundreds of times, and I've also tried plugging in the numbers into the original equations one at a time and I keep getting the same answer. So I figured the only thing that is wrong then is the numbers, but the numbers came straight from the book, so they can't be wrong!
 
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Why don't you present your math here, step by step? If you also include the constants that you use (there aren't that many!) you can avoid the image links.
 

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