How Do You Calculate the Orbital Speed and Period of a Satellite?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the orbital speed and period of a satellite, the gravitational force acting on the satellite must equal the centripetal force required for circular motion. The formula for gravitational force can be equated to the centripetal force to derive the orbital speed. The orbital speed can be calculated using the equation v = √(GM/r), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, and r is the distance from the center of the Earth to the satellite. The orbital period can then be determined using the formula T = 2πr/v. Understanding these relationships is essential for solving satellite motion problems.
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Homework Statement


the solar maximum mission satellite was placed in a circular orbit about 150 miles above earth. Determine (a) the orbital speed of the satellite and (b) the time required for 1 complete revolution


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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But you haven't shown an attempt yet! Here's where I would start:

The force of gravity between the satellite and the Earth provides the centripetal force.
Fg = Fc
What should we do from here?
 
try thinking about Newtons laws of motion and applying one of them in particular radially =]
 
am i looking for angular velocity of velocity tangent to its orbit
 

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