Orbit Equation Simplification: Solving for Period and Radius

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The discussion focuses on rearranging gravitational equations to solve for the period (T) and radius (R) of an orbit. The initial equation provided is (G*M)/R^2 = (4*pi^2*R)/T^2, which leads to a derived equation for T^2 as T^2 = (4*pi^2*R^3)/(GM). However, there is confusion regarding the second equation, which is identified as incorrect, while the first and third equations are confirmed as correct. The importance of checking units is emphasized to ensure the equations are dimensionally consistent. Overall, the thread concludes with a verification of the rearranged equations, affirming their correctness.
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Homework Statement


I'm just trying to rearrange a few equations for gravity, period, radius etc., and am a tad confused.

Homework Equations


(G*M)/R^2 = (4*pi^2*R)/T^2

Want to rearrange for T and R. :)

The Attempt at a Solution


I got T to a point of...

T^2 = (4*pi^2*R)*(R^2)/GM
I think that's right, but I'm sure it can be further simplified.


Any halp? :)
 
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\frac{GM}{R^2} = \frac{4 \pi^2 R}{T^2}


\frac{GM}{R^3} = \frac{4 \pi^2}{T^2}


now re-arrange again.
 
Thanks! Just what I needed! Can't believe I forgot it actually, silly me.

ANYWAY, therefore...

<br /> {T^2} = {4 \pi^2} \frac{R^3}{GM}<br />

Yes??

and...

<br /> {R^3} = {GM} \frac{4 \pi^2}{T^2}<br />

and...

<br /> {M} = \frac{4 \pi^2 R^3}{G T^2}<br />

Just wondering if I could get these verified...
 
The second equation is wrong...rest is fine!
 
When in doubt, check the units. The gravitational constant G has the units N·(m^2)/(kg^2) = (m^3)/[kg·(sec^2)].

So the second equation couldn't be right, since the kg and the (sec^2) in the denominator of G have to be canceled out somehow in order to leave the (m^3) for R^3 on the left-hand side. The correct form must have the combination GM(T^2)...
 
So it'd be ..

R^3 = GMT^2? on 4pi^2

Oh, and I just rearranged the lorentz factor to subject v^2

v^2 = c^2(1-(1/lorentz)^2)

How's that?

Thanks guys
 
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Both look fine.
 

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