What is the Orbital Period of Mars in Earth Years?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the orbital period of Mars in Earth years, utilizing its orbital radius and gravitational force. The subject area includes concepts from gravitational physics and orbital mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the speed of Mars and seeks guidance on how to find the period of revolution and convert it into Earth years. Some participants suggest using Kepler's Constant, while others question its definition and relevance. There is also a suggestion to assume a circular orbit to simplify the calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different methods to approach the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the assumption of a circular orbit, but there is no explicit consensus on the use of Kepler's Constant or its application.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of familiarity with Kepler's Constant, indicating a potential gap in knowledge that may affect the discussion. The original poster's inquiry also reflects a need for clarification on converting the period into Earth years.

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Mars travels in a nearly circular orbit of radius 2.28 x 10^11 m around the Sun. The mass o Mars is 6.27 x 10^23 kg. The gravitational force of attraction between Mars and the sun has a magnitude of 1.63 x 10^21 N.

a) what is the speed of Mars?
i got 2.4 x 10^4 m/s

b)Determine the period of revolution of Mars around the Sun in Earth years.
how do i find the period and then convert that into Earth years?
 
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Use Kepler's Constant
 
gabbagabbahey said:
Use Kepler's Constant

ummm... what's that? I've never learned that.
 
Okay, then just assume the orbit is circular so that Mars' speed is constant and tangential. What is the circumference of Mars' orbit? How long does it take to travel that circumference at the speed you calculated in (a)?
 

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