What is the Equation for Calculating the Mass of the Sun?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the mass of the Sun using Kepler's third law of planetary motion, specifically the relationship between the orbital period and the distance of a planet from the Sun.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the equation T²/R³ = 4π²/GM to derive the mass of the Sun, using Venus as a reference. There are attempts to verify calculations and check the accuracy of the orbital period used.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on checking calculations and ensuring proper unit conversions. There is an acknowledgment of discrepancies in the calculated mass compared to the known value of the Sun's mass, indicating ongoing exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the importance of converting the orbital period from years to seconds and the implications of using accurate measurements for distance and time in their calculations.

Dark_Dragon
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Last edited:
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Dark_Dragon said:
ok, so if my equation to find the mass of the sun is:
T²/R³ = 4п²/GM
and i used the orbital period (T²)(in seconds) and the distance from the sun (R³)(in metres) of say, venus, then i transform the equation to find "M" and i get:

M = 4π²(R³/T²) / G
M = (4π²)(1.08e+11/1.95e+7) / (6.67e-11)
=3.27e+15
but the mass of the sun is 1.98e+30.

Check your calculations. I get 1.92*10^30 kg.
 
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Last edited:
Check your orbital period. Make sure you convert the year into seconds and then square it.
 
ok scratch the last post, i got it, thank you for your help both of you!
much appreciated =)
 

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