What is the Force Generated by a Non-Elliptical Orbit Planet?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the force acting on a planet in a non-elliptical orbit around a star, which includes a gravitational term and an additional force dependent on a constant alpha. Participants are trying to determine the relationship between the background density of material and the force generated, specifically finding the value of B in terms of alpha. The approach suggested involves assuming a spherically symmetric mass distribution and calculating the total mass as a function of radius, M(r), to derive the radial dependence of the force. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in understanding the problem and emphasizes the need for clarity in the calculations. The thread aims to assist in solving the physics problem before the deadline.
Tom1
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Homework Statement



A planet around a star has an orbit that is not exactly an ellipse. In addition to the dominant Fo \alpha r^-2 term due to gravity from the central star, the planet seems to be responding to a slight additional force which has the form F1 \alpha r^-\alpha where \alpha is some constant.


Homework Equations



Included in 1.

The Attempt at a Solution



Where do I begin?
 
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I have no idea since I don't know what you're supposed to be doing.
 
Sorry, part of this seems to have been cut off.

Assuming there is a slight background density of material with spherically symmetric density p1 falling off as p1 (alpha) r^-B

Find the value of B in terms of alpha
 
Can anyone help me get started please? I don't understand this at all and it's due soon.
 
Near as I can tell you want to assume there is a mass distribution with density rho(r)=p1*(r/r0)^(-B). Now you want to figure out the radial dependence of the force it generates. Compute total mass as a function of r, M(r). Use that to calculate the force.
 
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