Effects of Varying Satellite Heights on Orbit Motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of varying satellite heights on their orbital motion around the Earth. The original poster is exploring how the gravitational force changes with altitude and its implications for satellite stability and motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand the relationship between gravitational force and orbital motion, questioning whether a stronger gravitational pull at lower altitudes would lead to a satellite crashing into the Earth. Some participants inquire about relevant equations that could clarify orbital velocity and motion.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the original poster's questions, suggesting that they seek out equations related to orbital mechanics. There is a recognition of the challenges posed by the lack of formal resources, such as textbooks, which may be influencing the understanding of the topic.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a lack of formal instruction in astronomy and reliance on a booklet with questions and suggested websites, which may limit their access to comprehensive learning materials.

Riccardo K
1. The problem statement, all variables, and given/known data
Satellites orbiting the Earth are often put into orbit at different heights around the planet. What affect will this have on the motion of the satellite and how exactly would the motion of a very high orbit satellite differ from one neared to the Earth?

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


The closer the satellite to the Earth the stronger the force of Earth's Gravitational Field. If the gravitational force is greater than the Forward Motion Force wouldn't the satellite slowly get closer to the Earth and then Crash?

Thanks for any help provided
 
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Are you sure that you don't have any "Relevant Equations"? I don't know what has been covered in your class, but there are equations for the velocity of an orbit.
 
The thing is that my school does not teach you Astronomy. They give you this massive booklet with 50 questions you need to answer and it has to be handed in on the first lesson of the year...
 
It is meant to refine your research skills or something like that.. I don't really understand what they were thinking when they did that...
 
No textbook? If research techniques are to be learned, then you should start by trying Google to see if you can get an equation for orbital velocity.
 
I'll just tell my teacher that out of the 50 questions this one I did not understand.
 
Riccardo K said:
No Textbook just a booklet with some "Suggest Websites". Equation: http://prntscr.com/g1rw0f
That link should tell you all you need to know to fill in the "Relevant Equations" field and answer the question.
 
Thanks
 

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