Relative angular velocity of a satellite

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of relative angular velocity of a satellite as observed from Earth, particularly focusing on the definition and implications of relative velocity in non-inertial frames of reference. Participants explore the relationship between the satellite's velocity and the Earth's rotation, questioning the appropriate inertial frame for these definitions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the definition of relative velocity in the context of a satellite moving in the direction of Earth's rotation, specifically asking about the inertial frame of reference for the expression Vs - Ve.
  • Another participant suggests that the inertial frame could be an "imaginary non-rotating Earth," implying a hypothetical scenario for understanding relative motion.
  • A third participant seeks clarification on the phrase "1 year = 1 day," indicating confusion about its meaning in the context of the discussion.
  • A later reply attempts to explain that if Earth did not rotate, the concept of a day would change, suggesting that a full revolution around the sun would correspond to a 24-hour day over the course of a year.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definition of the inertial frame in relation to the satellite's relative velocity, and there is no consensus on the interpretation of "1 year = 1 day." The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these definitions.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about the inertial frame, particularly regarding the nature of Earth's rotation and the hypothetical scenarios proposed. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical or conceptual steps involved in defining relative velocity in this context.

zorro
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This is a statement in my book - "The relative velocity of a satellite moving in the direction of Earth's rotation (for an observer on earth) is given as Vs - Ve."

We always define relative velocity of a particle say P in a frame of reference S1 accelerating w.r.t to an inertial frame of reference say S as

VP,S1 = VP,S - VS1,S

But in this case the Earth itself has some angular velocity and it is not an inertial frame of reference. My question is, in the expression Vs - Ve, what is the inertial frame w.r.t to which we define these velocities? Is it Earth again or some other imaginary inertial frame ?
 
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Abdul Quadeer said:
My question is, in the expression Vs - Ve, what is the inertial frame w.r.t to which we define these velocities? Is it Earth again or some other imaginary inertial frame?
Inertial frame would be an imaginary non-rotating Earth (1 year = 1 day).
 
1 year = 1 day? What does that mean?
 
If Earth did not rotate, one day would be the same as one year. One day is generally accepted as the time it takes for the Earth to perform a full rotation. If the Earth did not rotate, one full revolution around the sun would simulate a normal 24-hour day as far as the sun's motion relative to Earth, but would occur over the period of a year. Thus, 1 year = 1 day. I believe that's what he was referring to.
 

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