Question on gravitation(low-altitude satellite)

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Is it the mass? Is it the radius?In summary, the question asks for the speed of a low-altitude satellite near the moon's surface, given the speed of a satellite near Earth's surface and the ratio of the average density and radius of the Earth to that of the moon. Using the equation v^2 = GM/r, where v is the speed, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass, and r is the radius, the correct answer is 3.57km s-1 (D). The mistake in the attempt at a solution was using the incorrect values in the equation. The ratio of the mass of the Earth to that of the moon is 80:1, not 1:80.
  • #1
karis
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Homework Statement


A low-altitude satellite near the Earth's surface has a speed of 7.90 km s-1. The radius of the Earth is about 4 times that of the moon and the ratio of the average density of the Earth to that of the moon is about 5:4. The speed of a low-altitde satellite near the moon's surface would be

A. 1.77km s-1
B. 2.21km s-1
C. 2.47km s-1
D. 3.57km s-1
E. 4.42km s-1

Homework Equations


v2 = GM/r



The Attempt at a Solution


i got the ans of 3.12km s-1
the ratio of the mass of Earth to moon would be 80:1
n the ratio of radius of Earth to moon is 4:1
so i guess it's 7.92/20 ?

Pls help, i don't know what i did wrong :(
Thz so much
 
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  • #2
Look at your equation again. What variable does 7.9^2/20 represent?
 
  • #3
7.9 is the speed of satellite near Earth's surface, and 20 is the ratio of the mass and radius combining, (1/80)*4
 
  • #4
Not the individual terms, what variable does your answer aka 7.9^2/20 = 3.12 represent? Look carefully; is it the speed of the satellite?
 

1. What is the force of gravity on a low-altitude satellite?

The force of gravity on a low-altitude satellite is approximately 90% of the force of gravity at the Earth's surface. This force is known as the gravitational acceleration, which is approximately 9.8 meters per second squared.

2. How does the force of gravity affect the orbit of a low-altitude satellite?

The force of gravity is the main factor that determines the orbit of a low-altitude satellite. The satellite must maintain a balance between its speed and the gravitational pull of the Earth in order to stay in orbit.

3. What is the difference between low-altitude and high-altitude satellites in terms of gravity?

The main difference between low-altitude and high-altitude satellites in terms of gravity is the strength of the gravitational force. Low-altitude satellites are closer to the Earth's surface, so they experience a stronger gravitational pull compared to high-altitude satellites.

4. How does the Earth's shape affect the force of gravity on a low-altitude satellite?

The Earth's shape has a negligible effect on the force of gravity on a low-altitude satellite. While the Earth is not a perfect sphere, the difference in gravitational force between the equator and the poles is very small and does not significantly impact the orbit of a satellite.

5. What other factors besides gravity can affect a low-altitude satellite's orbit?

Other factors that can affect a low-altitude satellite's orbit include atmospheric drag, solar radiation, and the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies such as the moon and other planets. These factors can cause slight deviations in the satellite's orbit over time.

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