Hi Our teacher told us the following:F = m * v² / r = m * 4 pi² /

  • Thread starter Thread starter physwha
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Hi Teacher
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to gravitational forces and orbital mechanics, specifically focusing on the relationship between force, mass, velocity, and radius in the context of an object orbiting another, such as the Earth around the Sun.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the derivation of the force equation and questioning the roles of constants such as k and c, as well as the significance of the term 1/r². There is also a discussion about the relationship between the formulas presented and their application to orbital motion.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on specific terms and their meanings within the context of gravitational forces. Some guidance has been provided regarding the relationship of the formulas to orbital mechanics, but there is no explicit consensus on the interpretation of all variables involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and implications of various constants and terms in the equations, indicating a need for further exploration of these concepts. The discussion is framed within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the depth of exploration.

physwha
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
hi

Our teacher told us the following:

F = m * v² / r = m * 4 pi² / T² * r

= m * 4 pi² / k * 1 / r²

= c * m / r²

F = y * mM / r2

Why is there the k and 1 / r² and later the c?
 
Physics news on Phys.org


Did this have to do with one object orbiting another?
 


Yes, it's about the Earth around the Sun for example.

PS: I now understand the c but still not k (is it the same?) and 1 / r² :S
 


Are you familiar with the following formula?
[tex]T = 2\pi\sqrt{\frac{r^3}{GM}}[/tex]where T is the time taken for one orbit, r is the radius of the orbit, G is the gravitational constant, and M is the mass of the body being orbited.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K