Question about satellite motion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the motion of two satellites, X and Y, observed from Earth, with X moving faster than Y. The conclusion drawn is that Satellite Y is at a higher altitude due to its slower velocity, which indicates less gravitational force acting upon it. The relevant equations for satellite motion are provided: acceleration (a = v²/r) and gravitational force (F = mv²/r), where r represents the distance from the Earth's center. Further exploration of the forces acting on satellites in orbit is suggested.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with gravitational force equations
  • Knowledge of orbital mechanics
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of gravitational force in orbital mechanics
  • Learn about the relationship between orbital speed and altitude
  • Explore the equations of motion for satellites in circular orbits
  • Investigate the effects of mass and radius on satellite acceleration
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in understanding satellite dynamics and orbital mechanics.

Tangeton
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Homework template not used; Member warned.
This is one of the questions in the book without an answer and it is really frustrating that I can't check if my through process is correct.

Two satellites X and Y are seen from the ground crossing the night sky at the same time. Satellite X crosses the sky faster than Y. State with a reason which satellite is higher.

I wrote: Satellite Y as the gravitational attraction doesn't act as much on it so it moves around the Earth slower than X does.

Is my answer correct?
 
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Half right. Can you write down an equation for the force and resulting acceleration of a satellite at radius R?
 
haruspex said:
Half right. Can you write down an equation for the force and resulting acceleration of a satellite at radius R?

a= v^2/r and F = mv^2/r , where r is the distance from centre of the Earth to the satellite. Where do I go from here?
 
Tangeton said:
F = mv^2/r , where r is the distance from centre of the Earth to the satellite.
Since it is in orbit, what else is F equal to?
 

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