Velocity to Keep Object in Orbit Above Moon - Jeffrey

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In summary, the key to finding the velocity needed to keep an object in orbit around the moon is understanding the relationship between centripetal force and gravity. By equating the gravitational force to the centripetal force, one can solve for the necessary velocity using a simple algebraic equation. Good luck!
  • #1
jeffreydi
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I am trying to find velocity which is needed to keep any object which is in orbit outerspace just above the surface of the moon. Help appriciated...
Jeffrey
 
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  • #2
Try thinking about this more generally. You have an object moving in a circular path (in this case in orbit around the moon). In order to maintain this path there must be a centripetal force acting, in this case gravity. Write down the gravitational force between the object and the moon and equate it to the centripetal force, the answer should then be just a few lines of algebra away.

Good luck!
 
  • #3
interesting, a (centripetal) = v^2 over r, where r is mean radius of moon, and a (centripetal) is 1.6 m/s^2, one can solve for v.
I think I got it, thanks buddy.
 

What is the formula for calculating velocity to keep an object in orbit above the moon?

The formula for calculating velocity to keep an object in orbit above the moon is given by v = √(GM/r), where v is the velocity, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the moon, and r is the distance between the object and the center of the moon.

What is the significance of velocity in maintaining an orbit above the moon?

Velocity is crucial in maintaining an orbit above the moon because it determines the balance between the gravitational pull of the moon and the centripetal force of the orbiting object. If the velocity is too low, the object will crash into the moon, and if it is too high, the object will escape the moon's orbit.

How does the velocity required for orbit above the moon vary with the mass of the object?

The velocity required for orbit above the moon is inversely proportional to the square root of the mass of the object. This means that the larger the mass of the object, the lower the velocity needed to maintain an orbit above the moon.

What factors can affect the velocity needed to keep an object in orbit above the moon?

The velocity needed to keep an object in orbit above the moon can be affected by the mass of the moon, the mass of the object, and the distance between them. Other factors such as atmospheric drag and other gravitational forces can also impact the velocity required for orbit.

How does the velocity needed to keep an object in orbit above the moon differ from that of orbiting around Earth?

The velocity needed to keep an object in orbit above the moon is lower than that required for orbiting around Earth. This is because the moon has a lower mass and weaker gravity compared to Earth, so the centripetal force needed to maintain an orbit is lower. Additionally, the distance between the object and the center of the moon is smaller compared to the distance between the object and the center of Earth, resulting in a lower velocity requirement.

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