Ratio of max height of a projectile to planet radius

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SUMMARY

The ratio of the maximum height of a projectile to the radius of a planet is determined when a projectile is launched at 60% of the escape speed. The escape speed is calculated using the formula \( v_{escape} = \sqrt{\frac{2GM}{R}} \). By applying the kinematic equation and gravitational principles, it is established that the ratio \( h/R \) equals 0.36, indicating that the maximum height reached by the projectile is 36% of the planet's radius.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of escape velocity
  • Knowledge of basic kinematics and motion equations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations involving gravitational constants
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of escape velocity in different gravitational fields
  • Learn about the effects of atmospheric drag on projectile motion
  • Explore advanced kinematics involving multi-stage projectile launches
  • Investigate the implications of varying mass and radius on gravitational forces
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding projectile motion in gravitational fields will benefit from this discussion.

yankans
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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
 
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Sorry I reworked this problem by myself and I solved it!
 

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