Centripetal Force and circular motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the velocity required for a satellite to maintain a circular orbit above Earth's surface, specifically focusing on the relationship between gravitational force and centripetal force in the context of circular motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine the velocity needed for a satellite by calculating the radius of its orbit and expressing the centripetal force in terms of gravitational force. Some participants question how to calculate the gravitational force acting on the satellite at that height.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationship between gravitational force and centripetal force, with some guidance provided on the connection between these forces. There is an ongoing inquiry into the specific calculations needed to find the gravitational force acting on the satellite.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the gravitational force at a specific altitude, and the participants are working within the constraints of the problem without providing explicit solutions or methods.

ferrariistheking
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Homework Statement


Gravity causes a centripetal force that allows satellites to travel around planets.

How fast must a 102-kg satellite travel to maintain a circular orbit 352 km above Earth's surface?

Homework Equations


F=m(v^2/r) -----> (F/m) x r= v^2, then square root

F= force
m=mass
v=velocity
r=radius

The Attempt at a Solution


So basically, I'm solving for v in km/s.

The mass is 102 kg

For radius, I added the radius of the Earth in meters with the circular orbit of 352 km.
6371000m + 352000m= 3723000m which is r.

The problem is that I need to solve for F. Does anyone know how to continue with this problem?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What is the gravitational force a 102 kg satellite feels at this height?
 
ferrariistheking said:
The problem is that I need to solve for F. Does anyone know how to continue with this problem?
Your answer is in the question. Gravity is the centripetal force. What is the force of gravity on a 102 kg object?
 
lekh2003 said:
Your answer is in the question. Gravity is the centripetal force. What is the force of gravity on a 102 kg object?
What is the equation for the gravitational force of attraction between two bodies of mass M and m whose centers are separated by a distance r?
 

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