Orbital period of satellite about a nonrotating body

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SUMMARY

The orbital period of a satellite in circular orbit at an altitude of 1000 km above a nonrotating planet, with an orbital speed of 5.3 km/s, is calculated to be 35 minutes. The relevant equations used include v(orbital) = √(GM/(R+r)), v(escape) = √(2GM/R), and T = 2πR/v. Initial calculations yielded an incorrect radius (R) of 282,028 m, which was corrected to 784,624 m after addressing a multiplication error. The final orbital period aligns with the answer key, confirming the calculations are accurate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational equations, specifically v(orbital) and v(escape)
  • Familiarity with circular motion and orbital mechanics
  • Proficiency in algebraic manipulation and unit conversion to SI units
  • Knowledge of the significance of nonrotating celestial bodies in orbital calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of gravitational equations, particularly for circular orbits
  • Learn about the effects of planetary rotation on satellite orbits
  • Explore the concept of escape velocity and its applications in astrodynamics
  • Investigate advanced orbital mechanics, including perturbations and non-circular orbits
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Students in physics or engineering, particularly those focusing on orbital mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to satellite motion and gravitational forces.

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Homework Statement


A satellite is in circular orbit at an altitude of 1000 km above the surface of a nonrotating planet with n orbital speed of 5.3 km/s. The escape velocity for the planet is 11.3 km/s. In this situation the orbital period of the satellite, in minutes, is...?


Homework Equations


v(orbital)=√(GM/R+r)
v(escape)=√(2GM/R)
T=2∏R/v

The Attempt at a Solution


Of course I converted everything to SI units first. So v(orbital)=5300m/s and v(escape)=11300m/s and r=10^6m. What I did is solved the two equations for velocity for M and then plugged in what I had. I found that R is 282,028m which seems small, but then using that I find that and the second equation I find the time period in minutes to be 25. According to my answer key the answer should be 35. I don't know if I am wrong or the answer key is wrong. What I don't know how to do is allow for any effect that the fact that the planet is non-rotating may have. Help...am I making a silly mistake? It is after midnight and I have been at this a while.
 
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Your value for R is not correct. Assuming that you mean GM/(R+r) in the first equation, your equations are correct and I guess something must have slipped solving those equations for R. (Hint: one way is to find GM from the second equation and insert this into the first equation and solve for R).
 
I got it! I left out a times two...I was trying to be smooth with my algebra to make my calculations easier and left out a x 2. I got it. R=784624 so R+r=1.78562x10^6. Using the third equation that gives me 35 minutes. Thank you, at least I knew I was working it out correctly!
 

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