Can the Kepler Problem be Solved for Bodies with Spin?

In summary, the conversation discusses the challenges of comparing the solution of the Kepler problem for point bodies and "rigid" bodies with spins. The main question is whether there is an easy way to include the spin of bodies in this problem, or if the usual procedures for describing such situations are no longer valid. The conversation also mentions the difficulty of finding solutions for this problem, with only partial results available in articles rather than textbooks. Suggestions for solving the problem include using Lagrangian equations and solving them numerically, as well as introducing a small parameter.
  • #1
Vrbic
407
18
Hello I'm wondering, what is difference in trajectory or period or...something if I try to compare solution of Kepler problem for point bodies and "rigid" bodies with spins. More precisely is some easy way how to include a spin of bodies to this problem? Or this procedure for describing of such situation is not valid anymore? If you may let me know some book or some link about that.
Thank you all.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
for a simplest example consider a barbell (two equivalent mass points linked by a weightless rod) in the gravity field of a fixed mass point. Consider a planar motion

Actually it is a very hard problem, you can find only partial results in articles, not in textbooks
 
Last edited:
  • #3
zwierz said:
for a simplest example consider a barbell (two equivalent mass points linked by a weightless rod) in the gravity field of a fixed mass point. Consider a planar motion

Actually it is a very hard problem, you can find only partial results in articles, not in textbooks
So do you mean I should try to compute a case when a barbell rotate around some central point object? And compare with general solution (without a spin)?
What procedure would you suggest? Using Lagrangian and solve Euler-Lagrange equations? Or how to insert "a spin" into general Kepler problem?
 
  • #4
I suggest that you write down the Lagrange equations and solve them numerically to make sure that it is a chaotic system and it does not have any relation to the Kepler problem. Perhaps some hope could be possible if you introduce a small parameter.
 

1. What is the Kepler problem with spin?

The Kepler problem with spin is a mathematical model used to describe the motion of a spinning object under the influence of gravity. It is an extension of the classical Kepler problem, which only considers the motion of non-spinning objects.

2. How is the Kepler problem with spin different from the classical Kepler problem?

The main difference between the two is that the Kepler problem with spin takes into account the rotation of the object, which adds an additional degree of freedom to the system. This means that the equations of motion are more complex and the solutions are more difficult to obtain.

3. What are the applications of the Kepler problem with spin?

The Kepler problem with spin has a wide range of applications, including the study of celestial bodies such as planets, moons, and asteroids. It is also used in spacecraft dynamics and control, as well as in the development of new satellite and orbit designs.

4. How is the Kepler problem with spin solved?

The Kepler problem with spin is solved using numerical methods, such as Runge-Kutta or Taylor series, due to the complexity of the equations involved. These methods allow for the calculation of the object's trajectory and other important parameters, such as its spin rate and orientation, over time.

5. Are there any real-world examples of the Kepler problem with spin?

Yes, there are many real-world examples of the Kepler problem with spin, such as the motion of planets in the solar system, the rotation of asteroids, and the attitude control of spacecraft. It is also used in sports such as figure skating and diving to model the motion of spinning athletes.

Similar threads

  • Classical Physics
Replies
20
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
3
Views
776
Replies
3
Views
927
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
86
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
500
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • MATLAB, Maple, Mathematica, LaTeX
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top