Calculating Orbital Distance in Earth's Gravitational Field

In summary, there was a discussion about calculating the distance above the surface of Earth at which a satellite must orbit. The given information included the mass of Earth, its radius, and the desired gravitational field strength. The conversation then involved finding the value of X in the equation for gravitational field strength. The final answer was determined to be (Sqrt (G(Mass earth)/ 4.5)) - Radius Earth.
  • #1
quickslant
90
0
I just want to know if there is enough information for me to answer this question.. to me it just seems like i should be given some more information

A satellite is designed to orbit Earth at an altitude above its surface that will place it in a gravitational field with a strength 4.5 N/kg

Calculate the distance above the surface of Earth at which the satellite must orbit.

Given :
Me = 5.98 x 10^24
Radius of Earth = 6.38 x10 ^6 km or 6.38 x 10^9 m
radius of satellite (r2) = RofE + X

it just seems like i should have the mass of the satellite to answer this question, can someone tell me if i have enough to solve it?
 
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  • #2
The gravitational field strength is given by:

[tex] g = \frac{GM_{E}}{r^{2}} [/tex]

So you have [tex] 4.5 = \frac{G(5.98\times10^{24})}{(R_{E}+X)^{2}} [/tex] and solve for X.
 
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  • #3
thank you..
 
  • #4
ok.. I am working this out and I am getting totally confused again
can someone show me how to isolate x in this equation?
 
  • #5
Can someone tell me if this is right?
(Radius Earth + X)^2 = G(Mass earth)/ 4.5

or X = (Sqrt (G(Mass earth)/ 4.5)) - Radius Earth??
 
  • #6
looks ok to me
 
  • #7
Thank you thank you thank you
 

FAQ: Calculating Orbital Distance in Earth's Gravitational Field

What is a gravitation field?

A gravitation field is a region in space where objects with mass experience a force of attraction towards each other. This force is known as gravity and is responsible for keeping objects in orbit around larger objects, such as planets around a star.

How is the strength of a gravitation field measured?

The strength of a gravitation field is measured by the force it exerts on an object with a known mass. The unit of measurement for gravitation field strength is called Newtons (N).

What factors affect the strength of a gravitation field?

The strength of a gravitation field is affected by the mass of the objects involved and the distance between them. The larger the mass of an object, the stronger its gravitational pull will be. The farther apart two objects are, the weaker their gravitational attraction will be.

How does Einstein's theory of general relativity explain gravitation fields?

Einstein's theory of general relativity explains gravitation fields as a result of the curvature of space-time caused by the presence of mass. In this theory, gravity is not seen as a force, but rather as a distortion of the fabric of space-time.

Can gravitation fields be shielded or blocked?

No, gravitation fields cannot be shielded or blocked. Gravity is a fundamental force of nature and its effects cannot be cancelled out or blocked by any known means. However, objects can be shielded from the effects of gravity by being placed in orbit around a larger object or by using propulsion systems to counteract the force of gravity.

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