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bodensee9
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Homework Statement
A satellite of mass m is orbiting the earth. The radius of the orbit is [tex]r_{0}[/tex] and the mass of Earth is [tex]M_{e}[/tex].
a. Find total mechanical energy.
b. Now suppose that satellite encounters constant frictional force f which retards its motion. The satellite will spiral to the earth. Assume the radius changes so slowly that you can treat the satellite as being in circular orbit of average radius r. Find approximate change in radius per revolution of satellite.
I found the first a. I think it's -[tex]\frac{GmM_{e}}{r_{0}}[/tex].
But then for part b, I assume that the frictional force is in the direction of its velocity. And so, I think I have [tex]\frac{\partial^2\theta}{dt^2}[/tex] = f. But then I am not sure what to do after that? I also know that the work done by f is equal to the change in energy? Thanks.
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
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