Homework AnswerCalculating Force & Distance of Two Masses

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the gravitational force and distance between two masses, specifically a moon and a planet. The masses are 5.5 x 1022 kg and 7.35 x 1022 kg, with a constant distance of 4.0 x 108 meters. The relevant formula used is F = Gm1m2/r2, where G is the gravitational constant. The speed of 950 m/s is mentioned, but its application in the calculation requires clarification regarding centripetal acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force calculations using Newton's law of universal gravitation
  • Familiarity with centripetal acceleration concepts
  • Knowledge of the gravitational constant (G)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the formula F = Gm1m2/r2 in gravitational force calculations
  • Learn about centripetal acceleration and its relationship to gravitational forces
  • Explore the concept of orbital mechanics and how velocity affects orbits
  • Investigate the significance of distance in gravitational interactions, particularly the concept of 1/4 distance
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on gravitational forces and orbital mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify these concepts for their students.

vipson231
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A moon is orbiting around the planet with a constant distance of 4.0 x 10^8 with...

Homework Statement



Question/w formulas are in attachment.

I know I've been given two masses, 5.5 and 7.35 x 10^ 22 kg, and a distance of 4.0 x 10^8. But what I don't understand is the speed of 950 m/s and the 1/4 distance part. I know you use the formula F=Gm1m2/r^2 formula but what do you do with the velocity that is given and how do you find the 1/4 the distance apart?
 

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hi vipson231! :smile:
vipson231 said:
But what I don't understand is the speed of 950 m/s …

the gravitational force will be the centripetal acceleration times the mass :wink:
 


I already got the answer. Thank you for the clarification though =)
 

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