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.
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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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