Calculating Mars's Orbital Period Using Kepler's Third Law

In summary, the conversation discusses the diameter and orbit of Mars compared to Earth, and attempts to calculate how long it takes Mars to orbit the Sun using the equation T^2=4(pi)^2r^3/GM. The initial attempt at a solution resulted in the answer of 1.88 years, but after further discussion and clarification, it was determined that the correct answer is 687 Earth days.
  • #1
Lance WIlliam
47
0

Homework Statement



Mars's orbit has a diameter 1.52 times that of Earth's orbit.
How long does it take Mars to orbit the Sun?
in years.


Homework Equations



I tried using T^2=4(pi)^2r^3/GM

I got 1.88years...but its wrong...

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Lance WIlliam said:

Homework Statement



Mars's orbit has a diameter 1.52 times that of Earth's orbit.
How long does it take Mars to orbit the Sun?
in years.


Homework Equations



I tried using T^2=4(pi)^2r^3/GM

I got 1.88years...but its wrong...

The Attempt at a Solution

What makes you think it's wrong?

Mars' year is 687 Earth days...
 
  • #3
With these things it would help if you showed your work so people can see exactly where you went wrong.

I think its the radius that is 1.52 times that of Earth's not the diameter. As Dave points out, you're correct.
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Thankyou I got it..."masteringphysics" always wants answers in the craziest of ways...
 

FAQ: Calculating Mars's Orbital Period Using Kepler's Third Law

How long does it take for Mars to complete one orbit around the Sun?

Mars takes approximately 687 Earth days, or 1.88 Earth years, to complete one orbit around the Sun.

What is the average distance between Mars and the Sun?

The average distance between Mars and the Sun is approximately 142 million miles (228 million kilometers).

Does Mars have a circular or elliptical orbit around the Sun?

Mars has an elliptical orbit, meaning its distance from the Sun varies throughout its orbit.

How does the tilt of Mars' axis affect its orbit around the Sun?

The tilt of Mars' axis, which is similar to Earth's, causes the planet to experience seasons as it orbits the Sun. This tilt also affects the amount of solar radiation received by different regions of Mars throughout its orbit.

How does the distance between Mars and the Sun affect its climate?

The distance between Mars and the Sun plays a significant role in its climate. Mars experiences extreme temperature variations due to its elliptical orbit, with temperatures ranging from -225°F (-143°C) at its furthest point from the Sun to 70°F (20°C) at its closest point.

Similar threads

Calculating distance of Mars from the Sun based on two elongations
Replies
2
Views
928
Find the location knowing the resonance using Kepler's third law
Replies
2
Views
755
Hohmann transfer ellipse to Mars orbit from LEO
Replies
6
Views
2K
Time to Mars (orbit around Sun given perihelion and aphelion)
Replies
2
Views
2K
Martian's Weight on Mars Calculated
Replies
8
Views
1K
Calculating Angular Diameter of an Orbit Using Kepler's Law
Replies
4
Views
1K
Circular Motion and the Law of Gravitation -- question
Replies
1
Views
2K
Finding the period (T) of a pendulum on Mars
Replies
3
Views
4K
Using Kepler's 3rd Law to find Period of Venus
Replies
4
Views
2K
What Are the Formulas for Calculating Height in Synchronous Orbit?
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top