The Sun's Net Gravitational Force

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the net gravitational force on the Sun due to other stars in the Milky Way, one can start by converting the galaxy's rotation period into linear speed. Using the formula for centripetal force, F = m*a = m*v^2/r, allows for the determination of the necessary force to maintain the Sun's orbit. The gravitational force acting on the Sun can then be equated to this centripetal force. The radial acceleration is calculated based on the Sun's distance from the galaxy's center. This approach effectively combines gravitational and centripetal force concepts to solve the problem.
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Homework Statement


The milky way galaxy ( which includes the Sun) rotates about its center with a period of 200 million years. The Sun is 2X10^20m from the center of the galaxy.

What is the net gravitational force on the sun due to the other stars in the milky way galaxy?

Homework Equations


F= m*a
F=Gm1m2/r^2
a=v^2/r

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not even sure where to begin...
 
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You are given the period for the Earth's orbit around the galaxy. Can you convert that into a speed so you can use
F = m*a = m*v^2/r?
This is the centripetal force necessary to hold the Earth in its orbit, and we know that force is provided by the gravitational force so that will be your final answer.
 
Well this is about the Sun, I think I figured it out by finding the radial acceleration, and then plugging it into the F= m*a
 
Problem from College Physics text, 3rd Ed., Giambattista, Richardson, and Richardson?
 

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