Escape Velocity and Gravitational Force

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculations of planetary escape velocity and the gravitational force between planets and the Sun. Participants share their equations and seek verification of their results, particularly regarding gravitational force calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their calculations for escape velocity and gravitational force for Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, seeking verification of their gravitational force results.
  • Another participant agrees with the calculations presented, noting potential differences in significant figures due to varying input values.
  • A suggestion is made to use Wolfram Alpha as a tool for checking the gravitational force calculations, with a specific link provided for Neptune.
  • Participants express surprise at the capabilities of Wolfram Alpha for such calculations and emphasize the importance of manual calculations for learning purposes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the validity of the escape velocity calculations, but there is no consensus on the gravitational force calculations as one participant seeks verification. Multiple views on the use of Wolfram Alpha as a checking tool are presented.

Contextual Notes

Some calculations may depend on the specific values used for constants, which could lead to variations in results. The discussion does not resolve the accuracy of the gravitational force calculations.

Zack Davis
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Hey Guys!
I've been doing a few equations in regards to planetary escape velocity and gravitational force.
The below links have the escape velocity of listed planet on the left side of the board, the gravitational force between the Sun and given planet on the right side. In the middle of the board I provide the data i used within the equations. I only did 3 planets but i plan on practicing more using the other 5 planets and I may even include Pluto. I have confirmed all the escape velocities using NASA's data tables but I can't find any sources to check my work on the gravitational force between said planet and the sun. So, I was wondering if some generous person out there could check my work.
Here are the links: (You can click on the picture to enlarge it)
Saturn:
http://imgur.com/2jtiEqO
Uranus:
http://imgur.com/fofuMGk
Neptune:
http://imgur.com/XbtUlvr
All equations are listed on the board, all math was calculated through Wolframalpha.com
Thanks everyone!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
No worries!

It constantly surprises me what it can do. Of course, it's always best to calculate by hand when you're learning a concept, but it's a very useful check!
 

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