Universal gravitation + orbits question

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the orbital period of a satellite at an altitude of 2.45 x 10^6 m, the total distance from the Earth's center must be determined by adding the Earth's radius (6.37 x 10^6 m) to the altitude, resulting in a radius of 8.82 x 10^6 m. The gravitational force equation Gm1m2/r^2 should be used to relate the gravitational force to the satellite's velocity, with the correct form being Gm1m2/r^2 = m2v^2/r. The discussion emphasizes the need for a formula that connects orbital velocity to the period, suggesting the use of v_orbit = √(r_orbit * g_orbit) for circular orbits or T² = (4π²μ)/(Gm1m2) * r³ for non-circular orbits. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying these equations to solve for the satellite's orbital period.
davie08
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Homework Statement


A 450kg satellite is to be placed at an altitude of 2.45 x 10^6m above the Earth surface. Calculate the period the satellite will have when orbiting at that altitude.


Homework Equations



m2g = Gm1m2/R^2 = m2v^2 = m2(4pie)^2 R /T^2 = m2 2pie v/T

Ac=4pie ^2 R / T^2

The Attempt at a Solution



Alt= r- rp
2.45x10^6m= r -6.37x10^6m
8.82x10^6m = r

I don't no what equation to use next
 
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davie08 said:
Gm1m2/r^2 = m2v^2

This is wrong it should be Gm_1m_2/R^2 = m_2v^2/r

davie08 said:
m2v^2 = m2(4pie)^2 R /T^2

Is also wrong I am not sure what you did here. You're also making one big equality chain which does not hold.

Start with Gm_1m_2/r^2 = m_2v^2/r. Do you know a formula that relates v to T for a circular orbit?
 
there are several aproches to this problem. If it is a circuler or bit you could use use
v_{orbit}=\sqrt{r_{orbit}g_{orbit}}

If it is not a circuler orbit you could use,

T^{2}=\frac{4\pi^{2}\mu}{Gm_{1}m_{2}}r^{3}
 
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