Central Force Motion: Solve r(t) & theta(t)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the motion of a particle under a central force defined by F(r) = -kr. The key equations include the energy equation E = 1/2 m r'^2 + (L^2)/(2mr^2) + U(r), where U(r) = 1/2 k r^2. The integral dt = (r^2 dr)/√(2E/m r^2 - k/m r^4 - L^2/m^2) presents significant challenges, prompting suggestions for using trigonometric substitutions or converting to Cartesian coordinates for simplification. The expected trajectory of the particle is elliptical.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of central force dynamics
  • Familiarity with energy conservation in mechanics
  • Knowledge of angular momentum in polar coordinates
  • Experience with integral calculus and trigonometric substitutions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study techniques for solving integrals involving trigonometric substitutions
  • Learn about the relationship between polar and Cartesian coordinates in mechanics
  • Explore the properties of elliptical orbits in central force motion
  • Investigate the application of conservation laws in particle dynamics
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those studying classical mechanics and central force motion, as well as anyone tackling complex integrals in the context of particle dynamics.

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Homework Statement


Consider the motion of a particle in the central force F(r) = -kr.
Solve for the particle's location as a function of time, r(t) and theta(t).

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]E = 1/2 m r'^2 + \frac{L^2}{2mr^2} + U(r)[/tex]
I know U(r) = 1/2 k r^2
[tex]\frac{dr}{dt} = \sqrt{\frac{2}{m}(E-U(r)) - \frac{L^2}{m^2 r^2}}[/tex]
(Where L is ang. momentum)

Plugging in U(r) I get a really nasty integral

[tex]dt = \frac{r^2 dr}{\sqrt{2E/m r^2 - k/m r^4 - L^2/m^2}}[/tex]

According to my professor I can use a trig sub to solve this, but I am not getting anywhere.
Is there some sort of relationship that I am missing? I know it's supposed to be an ellipse but I seem to get any sort of substitutions to work.
 
Last edited:
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This integral is such a mess.
I think the easiest way is to solve this problem in cartesion coordinates and convert it to polar coordinates.
 

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