Question about circular motion of planets

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the circular motion of planets and satellites, focusing on gravitational forces and centripetal acceleration. Participants are attempting to solve specific problems from a physics practice test related to these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using ratios of gravitational forces and centripetal forces to solve the problems. There are attempts to apply different methods, including series expansions and approximations, while some express frustration with the complexity of the approaches required.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on using ratios and approximations, while others are exploring various methods to simplify the problem. There is an ongoing exploration of different interpretations and approaches, particularly regarding the use of the binomial theorem and its necessity in solving the problems.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problems are from a high school-level physics test, which may not expect advanced methods like the binomial theorem. There is a sense of urgency as some participants express desperation for help, indicating the challenges they face in understanding the material.

  • #31
I think I got 25 now. Could we move on to number 26? Thanks!
 
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  • #32
RoboNerd said:
I think I got 25 now. Could we move on to number 26? Thanks!

That is what I was also helping you with.

What is the kinetic energy of satellite A in terms of the force on it?

What is the kinetic energy of satellite B in terms of the force on it?

Do you see the overlap? You can actually save yourself some computational time by thinking about how they will be related considering that they orbit the same body and have the same mass. What changes? What do you think that'll do to the kinetic energy?
 

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