Ratio of max height of a projectile to planet radius

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the ratio of the maximum height of a projectile to the radius of a planet when the projectile is launched at 60% of the escape speed. The relevant equations include the escape speed formula and gravitational force equations. The solution involves equating kinetic energy to gravitational potential energy, leading to the derived ratio of maximum height to planet radius as h/R = 0.36. The problem emphasizes disregarding atmospheric effects on the projectile's motion. The final result confirms the calculated ratio.
yankans
Messages
12
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Hint:Disregard any dissipative effects of the atmosphere of the planet.
A projectile is launched from the surface of a planet (mass M, radius R)
with a launch speed equal to 60 percent of the escape speed for that planet.
The projectile will rise to a maximum height and fall back to the surface of
the planet.

What will be the ratio of its maximum height above the surface to the radius of the
planet, h/R?

Homework Equations



escape speed:
KE = E(gravity)
1/2 mv^2 = (GMm)/R
F/m = a
a(gravity) = GM/R^2

The Attempt at a Solution



1/2 mv^2 = (GMm)/R
v(escape) = (2GMm)/R
v=sqrt((2GM)/R)
vi = 0.6 sqrt((2GM)/R)

vf^2 = vi^2 - 2gh
0 = 0.72GM/R - 2(GM/R^2)h
2(GM/R^2)h = 0.72GM/R
h/R = 0.36
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Sorry I reworked this problem by myself and I solved it!
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top