Calculate Satellite Velocity in Stable Orbit

In summary, to calculate the velocity of a satellite in a stable circular orbit around the Earth at a height of 5200km, the formula Ac=(V^2)/r should be used. This provides the acceleration needed, and the force can be determined from there.
  • #1
smaxemow
1
0
Q.Calculate the velocity of a satellite moving in a stable circular orbit around the Earth at a height of 5200km.

A. I wasn't sure which formula to use on this problem is it Ac=(V^2)/r
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Well I don't know what other information you have

But what provides the centripetal force needed to keep the satellite in the orbit?
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF!

Hi smaxemow ! Welcome to PF! :smile:
smaxemow said:
I wasn't sure which formula to use on this problem is it Ac=(V^2)/r

Simple answer: yes. :smile:

That gives you the acceleration.

And now you need to know the force … :smile:
 

FAQ: Calculate Satellite Velocity in Stable Orbit

What is a satellite velocity in a stable orbit?

Satellite velocity in a stable orbit is the speed at which a satellite must travel in order to maintain a stable position in its orbit around a celestial body, such as the Earth. It is influenced by the gravitational pull of the celestial body and the centripetal force needed to keep the satellite in orbit.

How is satellite velocity in a stable orbit calculated?

The formula for calculating satellite velocity in a stable orbit is v = √(GM/r), where v is the velocity, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the celestial body, and r is the distance between the satellite and the center of the celestial body. This is known as the circular orbit velocity formula.

What factors affect satellite velocity in a stable orbit?

The main factors that affect satellite velocity in a stable orbit are the mass of the celestial body, the distance between the satellite and the celestial body, and the altitude of the satellite's orbit. Other factors that may influence the velocity include atmospheric drag, solar radiation, and gravitational pull from other celestial bodies.

What is the difference between geostationary and geosynchronous orbits?

Geostationary and geosynchronous orbits are both circular orbits around the Earth, but they have different characteristics. A geostationary orbit is one in which the satellite remains in a fixed position above a specific location on the Earth's equator, while a geosynchronous orbit is one in which the satellite completes one orbit around the Earth in the same amount of time as the Earth's rotation. This results in the satellite appearing to be stationary from the Earth's surface.

Why is it important to calculate satellite velocity in a stable orbit?

Calculating satellite velocity in a stable orbit is crucial for the successful deployment and operation of satellites. It ensures that the satellite remains in its designated orbit and does not drift off course. Additionally, knowing the velocity can help determine the amount of fuel required for the satellite to maintain its orbit, as well as the amount of time it will take to complete one orbit.

Back
Top