Potential Energy of Comet-Sun System: Calculate the Answer

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the gravitational potential energy of a comet in an elliptical orbit around the Sun, specifically at aphelion, where the distance is 50 AU. A user initially calculates the gravitational force but is reminded that the problem requires potential energy, not force. The correct approach involves using the gravitational potential energy formula, which is based on the distance from the Sun. The user is advised to reference the appropriate equations for gravitational potential energy to arrive at the correct solution. Understanding the distinction between force and energy is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
moondawg
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Homework Statement



A comet of mass 1.2x1010kg moves in an ellyptical orbit around the sun. It's distance from the Sun ranges between .5 AU and 50 AU. At aphelion what is the potential energy of the comet sun system?


Homework Equations


AU=1.496x1011


The Attempt at a Solution


F= ((G(1.99x1030)(1.2x1010))/(7.4807x1012)2=28462.67N... but that seems to small of a force, what am i doing wrong??
 
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You found the force, but you were asked for the energy.
Look up the formula for gravitational potential energy if you need to.
 
Aphelion is point on the orbit with largest distance from the sun. Why do you plug numbers in force expression, when you need to find potential energy?
 

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