Tangential velocity of external satellite

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the tangential velocity of external satellites and the assumptions made regarding acceleration. Participants clarify that while circular motion principles apply, the problem involves orbital motion influenced by gravitational forces. One contributor initially misunderstood the problem's nature, thinking it could be solved solely with circular motion concepts. The conversation emphasizes that satellites maintain constant speed around Earth, akin to mass on a string, but the forces at play differ. Ultimately, the kinematics remain consistent despite the varying forces involved.
jhonconnor
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
Homework Statement
Two satellites move in circular orbits around the Earth. The radius of the orbit of the outer satellite is three times that of the inner satellite (measured from the center of the Earth). If the modulus of the inner tangential velocity is v then that of the outer satellite is:

So I guess a_1 = a_2 where
a = (v_t)^2/r
and I found that
v_2 = sqrt(3)v_1
but the correct answer is
v_2 = v_1/sqrt(3)

Could you explain me what I'm doing wrong?
Relevant Equations
a = (v_t)^2/r
v_t = w*r
1740686340382.png
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why do you assume a1 = a2?
 
 
mjc123 said:
Why do you assume a1 = a2?
Because I tried to get tangential velocity of external satellite with that condition
 
kuruman said:
Ohhhhh, it means that is another kind of problem. I thought that the problem can be solved with circular motion, but I didn't consider the orbital motion and the influence of the gravitational force. Thanks a lot
 
Would this not be the same?
 

Attachments

  • Screenshot_20250227_214007_Chrome.jpg
    Screenshot_20250227_214007_Chrome.jpg
    28.4 KB · Views: 22
bdrobin519 said:
Would this not be the same?
The same as what?
 
jhonconnor said:
Ohhhhh, it means that is another kind of problem. I thought that the problem can be solved with circular motion, but I didn't consider the orbital motion and the influence of the gravitational force. Thanks a lot
But it is circular motion. The satellites go around the center of the Earth at constant speed just like a mass at the end of a string. The difference is in the nature of the force that provides the centripetal acceleration. The kinematics are the same.
 
Back
Top