Satellite orbiting Earth problem involving weight?

  • #1
13
0

Homework Statement


Imagine you are sent in a satellite.
a) How far above the surface of the Earth would you lose 1/2 of your weight?
b) To maintain the satellite orbiting around the Earth at that distance, what will be the velocity of the satellite?
c) Imagine you have taken a weighing machine with you. If you try to measure your weight what will it be? (Satellite is still orbiting Earth as in b)


Homework Equations


F=Gm1m2/r^2
PE=-GMEm/r

G=6.673*10^-11


The Attempt at a Solution


No idea.
 
  • #2
F=Gm1m2/r^2 is the weight. Weight is a force in units of Newtons.
I suggest you put in some reasonable number for your mass and figure out your weight at the surface of the Earth. Then see if you can find the radius that results in half that weight.
 
Back
Top