Escape Velocity and Gravitational Force

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating planetary escape velocity and gravitational force, with specific examples from Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The original poster confirmed escape velocities using NASA data but seeks verification for gravitational force calculations between these planets and the Sun. Participants suggest using WolframAlpha as a resource for checking these calculations, highlighting its capabilities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of manual calculations for learning while acknowledging the utility of online tools for verification. Overall, the thread showcases a collaborative effort to ensure accuracy in astrophysical 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!
 
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e.bar.goum said:
Looks fine to me! I agree with your answers to one or two sig fig, I presume we've used slightly different values.

One way to check could have been to ask wolframalpha to do it!

http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=Force between neptune and sun
Whoa! I had no idea Wolframalpha could do that! Thank you!
 
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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