The discussion focuses on calculating the altitude of a satellite in circular orbit around Earth, given the gravitational constant G = 6.67259 × 10−11 N·m²/kg² and the satellite's speed of 3160 m/s. Participants clarify that the mass of Earth, specifically 5.9736 × 10²⁴ kg, is essential for using the formula R³/T² = GMplanet/4π² to determine the orbital radius. The altitude can then be derived by subtracting Earth's radius from the orbital radius calculated from the formula.
PREREQUISITESStudents studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitational forces and orbital mechanics, as well as educators seeking to explain satellite motion and calculations related to orbits.
Maiia said:Homework Statement
Given: G = 6.67259 × 10−11 N · m2/kg2
A satellite moves in a circular orbit around Earth at a speed of 3160 m/s.
Find the satellite’s altitude above the surface of Earth. Answer in units of m.
I'm not sure how to do this without the mass of Earth..don't you need it to plug it into:
R^3orbit/ T^2 = GMplanet/ 4pi^2
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthwikipedia said:Mass 5.9736×1024 kg