Gravitational field of the moon

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done by the Moon's gravitational field on a 1100 kg meteor impacting its surface. The formula used is W = GMm/r, where G is the gravitational constant (6.67 x 10^-11 N(m/kg)^2), M is the Moon's mass (6 x 10^22 kg), m is the meteor's mass, and r is the distance from the center of the Moon to the meteor. The initial calculation yielded 2.9 x 10^9 joules, but a correction to the radius of the Moon (1.7 x 10^6 m) was suggested to refine the result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force and work-energy principles
  • Familiarity with the gravitational constant (G)
  • Knowledge of the mass of the Moon (6 x 10^22 kg)
  • Ability to perform calculations involving scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the work-energy theorem in physics
  • Learn about gravitational fields and their effects on objects
  • Explore the implications of varying radius values in gravitational calculations
  • Study the impact of celestial bodies on meteor trajectories
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitational forces and celestial mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of gravitational calculations.

chocolatelover
Messages
238
Reaction score
0
[SOLVED] gravitational field

Homework Statement


How much work is done by the Moon's gravitational field as a 1100kg meteor comes in from outer space and impacts on the Moon's surface?


Homework Equations



W=GMm/r

The Attempt at a Solution



W=6.67 X 10^-11(6 X 10^22)(1100kg)/1.5 X 10^6
=2.9 X 10^9

Thank you very much
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You should be getting the correct answer as long as the numbers you're using are correct. Check that value for the radius of the moon. Shouldn't it be 1.7*10^6 m? If so, your answer may be off a little bit.
 
Thank you very much

Regards
 

Similar threads

Calculating the Distance of a Zero Gravitational Field Between Earth and Moon
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Potential Energy and raising a satellite from Earth into a Circular Orbit
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Calculating Gravitational Potential
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
The force LRO experiences due to moons gravity?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Where between the Moon and the Earth is the gravitational potential=0 ?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
Newtons laws of universal gravitation
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Gravitational Field Strength at the equator and poles
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K
Calculating Tidal Range (Gravitation)
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Finding r of a Jovian-synchronous orbit and escape velocity
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Finding the net gravitational force on a rocket....
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K