Proving t^2/r^3: What Went Wrong?

In summary: The correct solution is:4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = GM/r4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = (v^2 / r) * (r^2 / r) = v^2v^2 = GM/rTherefore, t^2/r^3 = (4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2)^2 / (GM/r)^2 = (4(pi^2))^2 / (GM)^2 = 4(pi^2)^2 / (6.67*10^-11)^2 = 4(pi^2)^2 * (1.5*10^22)^2 = 4(pi^2)^2
  • #1
jackrc11
6
0

Homework Statement


In our unit on centripetal force, a large portion of the unit has been focusing on gravity and how the orbit is related to centripetal force. Our teacher told us to prove t^2/r^3 using F=(mv^2)/r and F=G(mM/r^2) as a small side part of our homework

Homework Equations


t^2/r^3
F=(mv^2)/r
F=G(mM/r^2)

where G = 6.67*10^-11
M and m are the objects' masses

The Attempt at a Solution


(mv^2)/r = G(mM/r^2)
mv^2 = G(mM/r)
v^2 = GM/r

giving

4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = GM/r
and
GM = v^2 / r = 4(pi^2)r

GM/r = (4pi^2)r / r = 4pi^2

4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = (4pi^2)

leaving the ratio
r^2 / t^2

When it should be r^2 / t^3. What did I do wrong? Was there something I forgot?
 
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  • #2
jackrc11 said:

Homework Statement


In our unit on centripetal force, a large portion of the unit has been focusing on gravity and how the orbit is related to centripetal force. Our teacher told us to prove t^2/r^3 using F=(mv^2)/r and F=G(mM/r^2) as a small side part of our homework

Homework Equations


t^2/r^3
F=(mv^2)/r
F=G(mM/r^2)

where G = 6.67*10^-11
M and m are the objects' masses

The Attempt at a Solution


(mv^2)/r = G(mM/r^2)
mv^2 = G(mM/r)
v^2 = GM/r

giving

4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = GM/r ##\ \ ## How do you go from this line
and
GM = v^2 / r = 4(pi^2)r ##\ \ ## to this line ?

GM/r = (4pi^2)r / r = 4pi^2

4(pi^2)(r^2)/t^2 = (4pi^2)

leaving the ratio
r^2 / t^2

When it should be r^2 / t^3. What did I do wrong? Was there something I forgot?
It's just bad algebra.
 

1. How do you prove t^2/r^3?

Proving t^2/r^3 involves using mathematical equations and principles to show that the relationship between t^2 and r^3 is valid. This can be done through various methods such as algebraic manipulation, calculus, and experimentation.

2. What are some common mistakes when attempting to prove t^2/r^3?

Some common mistakes when attempting to prove t^2/r^3 include incorrect use of mathematical operations, incorrect assumptions about the variables, and lack of understanding of the underlying principles involved.

3. What is the significance of t^2/r^3 in scientific research?

t^2/r^3 is often used in scientific research as it represents a relationship between two important variables: time (t) and distance (r). This relationship can help scientists understand various phenomena such as motion, gravitational forces, and orbits.

4. How is t^2/r^3 related to Newton's laws of motion?

t^2/r^3 is related to Newton's laws of motion through the law of universal gravitation, which states that the force between two objects is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This relationship is represented by t^2/r^3.

5. Can t^2/r^3 be proven in all situations?

While t^2/r^3 is a fundamental relationship in physics, it may not hold true in all situations. For example, at very small scales or in extreme conditions, other factors may come into play that affect the relationship between time and distance. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the context and limitations when attempting to prove t^2/r^3.

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