How to Calculate the Force to Maintain an Object in Orbit?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the force required to maintain an object in orbit, touching on concepts of centripetal force and angular velocity. It includes both theoretical aspects and practical applications, with a specific example involving a cowboy and a bull.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the calculation of the force needed to keep an object in orbit, clarifying that it is not a homework question.
  • Another participant suggests using the formula for centripetal force, F=m ω² r, to calculate this force.
  • A question is raised about the meaning of "ω" in the formula.
  • It is clarified that "ω" refers to angular velocity, defined as ω = 2π/T, where T is the period of rotation.
  • A participant introduces a scenario involving a cowboy and a bull, questioning how to calculate the force transferred back to the cowboy and the resulting loss of speed, assuming the bull is constrained to move in a circular path due to a string.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the calculations or implications of the forces involved, and multiple viewpoints and scenarios are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the definitions of angular velocity and centripetal force, as well as the specific conditions of the cowboy and bull scenario, which may not be fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in physics, particularly in orbital mechanics and forces, as well as those exploring practical applications of these concepts in unique scenarios.

Bjarne
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How is it possible to calculate the force it takes to keep an object in a orbit
coworbit.jpg


This is not homework..
 
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You can calculate the centripetal force from [itex]F=m \omega^2 r[/itex].
 
What is "w"
 
Bjarne said:
What is "w"

angular velocity, in radians per second.

w = 2pi/T
 
coworbit.jpg


How is it possible to calculate the: force that is transferred back to the cowboy, and hence the loses of speed,(off the bull) - assuming that the bull want to move away from the cowboy, (straight) but because of the string it is force to stay in constant orbit ?
 
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