[Logarithms]Kepler's third law of planetary motion

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SUMMARY

Kepler's third law of planetary motion establishes a relationship between the orbital period (P) of a planet and its mean distance (R) from the sun using the equation log P = (1/2)(log K + 3log R). The formula can be rewritten as a single logarithm: log P = log(K^(1/2) * R^(3/2)). The textbook solution shows that log(K^(1/2) * R^(3/2) / P) = 0, indicating that K^(1/2) * R^(3/2) equals P. This transformation is crucial for understanding the relationship between these variables.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of logarithmic properties and transformations
  • Familiarity with Kepler's laws of planetary motion
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of constants in mathematical equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study logarithmic identities and their applications in physics
  • Explore Kepler's laws in greater detail, focusing on their implications in astronomy
  • Learn about the derivation of Kepler's third law and its historical context
  • Investigate the role of constants in scientific equations and their significance
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on celestial mechanics, as well as educators looking to explain logarithmic applications in real-world scenarios.

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Homework Statement


Kepler's third law of planetary motion relates P, the period of a planet's orbit, to R, the planet's mean distance from the sun, through the equation log P = \frac{1}{2} (log K + 3log R), where K is a constant.

Rewrite the formula as a single logarithm.

Homework Equations


log P = \frac{1}{2} (log K + 3log R)

The Attempt at a Solution



Rewrite the formula as a single logarithm.
log P = \frac{1}{2} (log K + 3log R)
log P = \frac{1}{2} (log(KR^3))
log P = log K^\frac{1}{2} \cdot R^\frac{3}{2}

I have no idea what to do next.

4. The answer in the back of the textbook
log(\frac{K^{\frac{1}{2}} \cdot R^{\frac{3}{2} }}P)=0

Here I have no idea how they made the equation equal to 0. If anyone could help me I will be very grateful.
 
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