Satellite and gravitational force

In summary, a satellite is an object that orbits around another object in space and can be natural or artificial. It stays in orbit due to the gravitational force between it and the object it is orbiting, and this force also affects its speed and trajectory. Other forces such as air resistance and solar wind can also impact a satellite's orbit. Scientists use satellites to study gravitational force by equipping them with specialized instruments to measure its strength and changes in different locations in space, providing valuable insights into the behavior of the universe.
  • #1
fa08ti
32
0
a 500 kg satellite experiences a gravitational force of 3000 N, while moving in a circular orbit around the earth.
a: find the radius of the circular orbit
b: find the speed of the satellite
c: find the period of the orbit

attempt

a:
g= GM/r^2
r=sqrt(GM/g)
r= 3.33 x 10^-6 m

am i right?
 
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  • #2
Think about your answer for a second... does 10^-6m make any physical sense?
 
  • #3
not at all...where did i go wrong?
 
  • #4
Your equation is missing a term for the mass of the satellite:

[tex] F_{G} = \frac{GMm}{r^{2}} [/tex]
 
  • #5
thanks a lot!
 

Related to Satellite and gravitational force

1. What is a satellite?

A satellite is an object that orbits around another object in space. It can be natural, such as a moon, or artificial, created and launched by humans.

2. How does a satellite stay in orbit?

A satellite stays in orbit due to the gravitational force between it and the object it is orbiting. The satellite's orbit must also match the speed and direction of the object it is orbiting to maintain a stable orbit.

3. How does gravitational force affect satellites?

Gravitational force is the force of attraction between two objects with mass. In the case of satellites, it keeps them in orbit around a larger object, such as a planet or star. It also affects the speed and trajectory of the satellite's orbit.

4. Can satellites be affected by other forces besides gravity?

Yes, satellites can also be affected by other forces such as air resistance, solar wind, and magnetic fields. These forces can cause satellites to change their orbit or even fall out of orbit.

5. How do scientists use satellites to study gravitational force?

Scientists use satellites equipped with specialized instruments to study the effects of gravitational force on objects in space. They can measure the strength of gravitational force and how it changes in different locations in space, providing valuable insights into the behavior of the universe.

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