Calculate Satellite Velocity at 3600 km Above Earth

In summary, the conversation involves calculating the velocity of a satellite 3600 km above the surface of the Earth. The correct formula to use is v = √(GM/r), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, and r is the distance from the center of the Earth. It is important to note that the acceleration due to gravity is not the same at this height and the radius used in the circular motion equation is not 3600 km.
  • #1
pb23me
207
0
1. Homework Statement [/b]
calculate the velocity of a satellite 3600 km above the surface of the earth.


Homework Equations


Fnet= mg=ma
mg=ma
g=V2/r
r=3600000


The Attempt at a Solution

5940 m/s I am pretty sure this is correct just want to make sure.
 
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  • #2
Looks good to me as long as you plugged in all the right values
 
  • #3
Two things you need to include in your calculation:
1) at 3600 km above the surface of Earth, the acceleration due to gravity is not same as at the surface.
2) The radius in the circular motion equation is not 3600 km.
The correct value is a bit more than what you got.
 
  • #4
Filip Larsen said:
Two things you need to include in your calculation:
1) at 3600 km above the surface of Earth, the acceleration due to gravity is not same as at the surface.
2) The radius in the circular motion equation is not 3600 km.
The correct value is a bit more than what you got.

You are right...but the equations are right, and as we all know that is all that matters once you start grad school :P haha
 
  • #5
Just equate centripetal acceleration to the gravitational force at that height.
Better just remember the formula instead of deriving each time -

v = sq root (GM/r)

where G = grav constant, M= mass of earth, r = distance from centre of earth
 

1. How do you calculate the velocity of a satellite at a specific altitude above Earth?

To calculate the velocity of a satellite at a given altitude above Earth, you can use the formula: V = √(GM/R), where V is the velocity, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of Earth, and R is the distance between the satellite and the center of Earth. In this case, R would be 3600 km (or 3,600,000 meters).

2. What is the average velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth?

The average velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth will vary depending on its orbital path and the specific location of the satellite at any given time. However, using the formula mentioned above, the average velocity can be calculated to be approximately 7.5 km/s.

3. How does the velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth compare to the speed of sound?

The speed of sound is approximately 343 m/s, while the velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth is about 7.5 km/s. This means that a satellite is traveling at a much higher velocity than the speed of sound.

4. Can the velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth change over time?

Yes, the velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth can change over time due to factors such as changes in its orbital path, atmospheric drag, and gravitational pull from other celestial bodies. However, these changes are typically not significant and the satellite will maintain a relatively constant average velocity.

5. What is the purpose of calculating the velocity of a satellite at 3600 km above Earth?

Calculating the velocity of a satellite at a specific altitude above Earth is important for understanding its orbital path and predicting its movements. It is also crucial for maintaining the satellite's stability and ensuring it stays in its designated orbit. Additionally, knowing the velocity can help with planning and coordinating communication and data transmission with the satellite.

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