Physics Questions: Changes in Gravitational Force and Orbital Speed

  • Thread starter roymartin777
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Physics
In summary, if the distance between the Earth and the Moon is tripled and the mass of the Earth is tripled, the gravitational force between them would increase by a factor of 9. However, if the booster motors on a satellite are used to increase its separation from the Earth by a factor of two, its orbital speed would remain the same. This is because the orbital speed is determined by the centripetal force, which is directly proportional to the distance squared and inversely proportional to the mass. Therefore, increasing the distance by a factor of two would decrease the centripetal force by a factor of four, but increasing the mass by the same factor would cancel out this decrease, resulting in no change in orbital speed. This can
  • #1
roymartin777
1
0
If the distance between the Earth and the Moon were tripled and the mass of the Earth was tripled, what would happen to the gravitational force between them?

a)Remains the same
b)Increase by a factor of 3
c)Increase by a factor of 9
d)Decrease by a factor of 3
e)Decrease by a factor of 6

The booster motors on a satellite were used to increase its separation from the surface of the Earth by a factor of two. What happens to its orbital speed?

Remains the same
Increases by a factor of two
Increases by a factor of sqrt(2)
Decreases by a factor of sqrt(2)
Decreases by a factor of two
None of the above

I did most questions and just left out these two. hope someone can help me out. thanks. please explain the reason.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you know Newton's law for gravitational force? The 2nd problem requires a formula for the orbital speed based on the centripetal force law. Check your notes for those and if you're still having problems, post back and show some work.
 

1. What is the difference between classical and quantum physics?

Classical physics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of macroscopic objects and their motion, while quantum physics is a branch that deals with the study of microscopic particles and their behavior. Classical physics follows the laws of Newtonian mechanics, while quantum physics follows the laws of quantum mechanics.

2. How does relativity play a role in physics?

Relativity is a theory proposed by Albert Einstein that explains the relationship between space and time. It plays a crucial role in physics as it provides a framework for understanding the behavior of objects in the universe. It also helps to explain phenomena such as gravity and the bending of light.

3. What is the role of mathematical equations in physics?

Mathematical equations are essential in physics as they provide a way to describe and predict the behavior of physical systems. They help to quantify and analyze complex physical phenomena, making it easier for scientists to understand and explain the natural world.

4. Can physics laws be broken?

Physics laws, such as the laws of thermodynamics or Newton's laws of motion, are considered fundamental and have been observed to hold true under various conditions. However, there are certain circumstances, such as at the quantum level, where these laws may not apply, and new theories may need to be developed to explain the observed phenomena.

5. How is physics used in everyday life?

Physics has a significant impact on our daily lives, from the technology we use (such as smartphones and computers) to the way we understand the world around us. It helps to explain concepts such as electricity, gravity, and light, which are essential in many industries, including engineering, medicine, and telecommunications.

Similar threads

Change in gravitational potential below the surface of the Earth
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Does an orbiting satellite speed up as it falls towards earth
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Apparent (clearly false) contradiction - Kepler's Third Law
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
972
Gravitational Field Multiple Choice Help
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
Calculating Angle & Speed to Reach Planet's Moon from Station Orbit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
829
Why do particles in a falling coach get closer together?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
733
What happens to the speed and time of a satellite orbiting closer to Earth?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
1K
Gravitational Force: Tripling Distance - Factor 3 or 6?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Speed of a star in Special Relativity
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
618
Change in acceleration with change of angle of applied force
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
813

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top