What is the speed of a satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth?

In summary, the motion of satellites problem involves using mathematics and physics to predict and comprehend the movement of artificial satellites orbiting around a celestial body. Satellites stay in orbit due to a balance of linear velocity and gravitational pull, and factors such as mass, velocity, and external forces can affect their motion. Scientists use mathematical models and consider various factors to predict the trajectory of satellites. Understanding the motion of satellites is important for their various practical applications and for gaining knowledge about the laws of physics and our universe.
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hatingphysics
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Find the speed of a satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth with a radius 2.93 times the mean radius of the Earth; RE= 6.37·103 km ME= 5.98·1024 kg
 
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https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=94379
 
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The speed of a satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth can be calculated using the equation v = √(GME/r), where G is the gravitational constant, ME is the mass of the Earth, and r is the radius of the orbit. In this problem, the radius of the orbit is given as 2.93 times the mean radius of the Earth, which is 6.37·103 km. Substituting these values into the equation, we get v = √(6.67·10^-11 m^3/kg/s^2 * 5.98·10^24 kg / 2.93 * 6.37·10^3 km) = 7.69 km/s. This is the speed of the satellite in its circular orbit around the Earth. It is important to note that this is the average speed of the satellite, as its speed will vary slightly throughout its orbit due to changes in the Earth's gravitational pull.
 

Related to What is the speed of a satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth?

1. What is the motion of satellites problem?

The motion of satellites problem refers to the mathematical calculations and physical principles used to predict and understand the movement of artificial satellites orbiting around a celestial body, such as the Earth.

2. How do satellites stay in orbit?

Satellites stay in orbit due to the balance of two forces: the forward motion of the satellite, known as its linear velocity, and the pull of gravity from the celestial body it is orbiting around. This results in a circular or elliptical path around the celestial body.

3. What factors affect the motion of satellites?

The motion of satellites can be influenced by several factors, including the mass and velocity of the satellite, the distance from the celestial body, and the presence of other objects or forces, such as atmospheric drag or solar radiation pressure.

4. How do scientists predict the trajectory of satellites?

Scientists use mathematical models, such as Newton's laws of motion and Kepler's laws of planetary motion, to predict the trajectory of satellites. They also take into account various factors, such as the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies and the effects of atmospheric drag, to make more accurate predictions.

5. Why is understanding the motion of satellites important?

Understanding the motion of satellites is crucial for several reasons. Satellites are used for communication, navigation, weather forecasting, and scientific research, and their accurate movement is necessary for these functions. Additionally, studying the motion of satellites can also provide valuable insights into the laws of physics and help us explore and understand our universe.

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