How Does a Star's Mass Loss Affect Satellite Orbit Distances?

AI Thread Summary
A satellite in circular orbit around a star experiences changes in its orbit when the star loses one percent of its mass due to an explosion. The discussion highlights that the angular momentum and kinetic energy of the star decrease, but questions arise about the effects on the satellite's kinetic energy and angular momentum. It is noted that the mass loss of the star alters the gravitational force acting on the satellite, which can affect its orbit. The remaining mass of the satellite also influences its kinetic energy, leading to potential changes in the maximum and minimum distances of its orbit. Overall, the mass loss from the star directly impacts the satellite's orbital dynamics.
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Homework Statement



A satellite is in circular orbit of radius R about a star of mass M . The star
suddenly undergoes an explosion in which one percent of its mass is blown spherically
symmetrically to a large distance. What are the new nearest and furthest distances of
the satellite’s orbit around the star?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Am i right in thinking that both the angular momentum and energy of the star decrease..the new J = 0.99mrv and the new KE = 1/2 (0.99m)v^2? Same PE?
 
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Why should either the KE or the angular momentum of the satellite change? Did any force do any work on it? Or the force field ceased to be central?

ehild
 


ehild said:
Why should either the KE or the angular momentum of the satellite change? Did any force do any work on it? Or the force field ceased to be central?

ehild

it's mass changed! - i.e. the total PE and KE of remaining satellite + parts blown away is unchanged, yes..but surely the KE of the remaining bit of satellite decreases as its mass is less...?

Otherwise there would be no max/min distances that it asks us to calculate..
 


Read the text more carefully.

"The star suddenly undergoes an explosion in which one percent of its mass is blown spherically symmetrically to a large distance."

ehild
 

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