The velocity of a satellite rotating around the Earth

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the velocity of a satellite orbiting Earth, specifically addressing the confusion surrounding the variable 'r'. It is established that 'r' represents the distance from the center of the Earth to the satellite, which includes both the Earth's radius and the altitude of the satellite. The correct distance from the Earth's center is 6580 km when gravity is 9.2 m/s². Additionally, if the altitude is indeed 6580 km, the gravitational acceleration 'g' would be approximately 2.38 m/s².

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational acceleration and its calculation
  • Knowledge of satellite orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with the Earth's radius (approximately 6371 km)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations related to motion
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  • Research the formula for satellite velocity using gravitational acceleration
  • Learn about the implications of altitude on satellite speed
  • Explore the relationship between gravity and distance from the Earth's center
  • Investigate how changes in altitude affect gravitational force
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Aerospace engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in satellite dynamics and gravitational effects on orbital motion.

yashboi123
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Homework Statement
A satellite travels at an altitude of 6580 km where gravity is 9.2 m/s^2.
Relevant Equations
v^2/r = a
1694914128479.png

Not sure what r would be in this scenario. I tried adding the radius of the earth to the altitude but that wasn't correct either.
 
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It looks like r is just the 'altitude'.
 
yashboi123 said:
Not sure what r would be in this scenario. I tried adding the radius of the earth to the altitude but that wasn't correct either.
Please show your work. We cannot help you if you don't tell us what you did.
 
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The confusion is in the question itself.

If gravity is 9.2 m/s^2 (as stated in the question), then satellite distance from earth center is 6580km (verify yourself!). And that distance should not be called altitude :-(

If altitude is really 6580km, g is about 2.38 m/s^2.
 
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