The velocity of a satellite rotating around the Earth

  • #1
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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  • #2
It looks like r is just the 'altitude'.
 
  • #3
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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  • #4
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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What is the velocity of a satellite rotating around the Earth?

The velocity of a satellite rotating around the Earth depends on its altitude and the mass of the Earth. At a low altitude, the velocity can be around 7.8 kilometers per second, while at a higher altitude, it can be around 3 kilometers per second.

How is the velocity of a satellite calculated?

The velocity of a satellite can be calculated using the formula v = √(GM/r), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, and r is the distance between the satellite and the center of the Earth.

Does the velocity of a satellite remain constant?

No, the velocity of a satellite is constantly changing due to the gravitational pull of the Earth and other factors such as atmospheric drag. However, the average velocity remains relatively constant.

Can the velocity of a satellite be increased?

Yes, the velocity of a satellite can be increased by using a rocket or other means of propulsion. This is often done to raise the satellite's orbit or to adjust its position.

What happens if the velocity of a satellite is too low?

If the velocity of a satellite is too low, it will not be able to maintain its orbit and will eventually fall back to Earth. This is known as orbital decay. To prevent this, satellites may need to be boosted periodically to maintain their velocity and altitude.

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