Need help figuring our periods of planets

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In summary, the conversation is about a homework question involving the period of a planet orbiting 3 A.U. from a star 3 times as massive as the sun. The suggested equation to use is P^2 = 4*pi^2/G(m1+m2)*R^3 and the student is unsure of how to approach the problem. The expert suggests replacing m1 and m2 with the mass of the sun and using the given radius of the orbit to solve the problem.
  • #1
Talontuner
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Homework Statement


OK here's the question: What is the period of a planet orbiting 3 A.U. from a star 3 times as massive as the sun? And my teacher says to use keppler's 3rd law revised by Newton but I am completely confused by the equation and how to use it on this problem.


Homework Equations


P^2= 4*pi^2/G(m1+m2) * R^3 is the equation


The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea where to even begin... please help. Suggestions?
 
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  • #2
The 4 pi squared and G are just constants. In this question you can replace m1 and m2 by just the mass of the sun, and r is the radius of the orbit which is given as 3AU.
 
  • #3
Thank you!
 

FAQ: Need help figuring our periods of planets

What are the different periods of planets?

The periods of planets refer to the time it takes for a planet to complete one full orbit around its star. This can also be referred to as the planet's year. Each planet has a different period depending on its distance from the star and the gravitational pull of the star.

How do scientists determine the periods of planets?

Scientists use a variety of methods to determine the periods of planets. One common method is the radial velocity method, which measures the gravitational pull of a planet on its star. Other methods include the transit method, which measures the decrease in brightness of a star as a planet passes in front of it, and the astrometry method, which measures the slight movements of a star caused by the gravitational pull of a planet.

Can the periods of planets change over time?

Yes, the periods of planets can change over time due to various factors such as interactions with other planets, changes in the planet's orbit, and gravitational influences from other stars. However, these changes are usually very small and do not significantly impact the overall period of the planet.

Are there any patterns in the periods of planets?

Yes, there are some patterns in the periods of planets. In our solar system, the closer a planet is to the Sun, the shorter its period. This is known as Kepler's Third Law of Planetary Motion. Additionally, there are also patterns in the periods of multiple-planet systems, such as the Titius-Bode law, which predicts the distances of planets from their star based on a mathematical formula.

How do the periods of planets affect their climates and environments?

The periods of planets can have a significant impact on their climates and environments. For example, a longer period can result in a longer year and longer seasons, which can affect the planet's temperature and weather patterns. Additionally, a planet's tilt and eccentricity (the shape of its orbit) can also impact its climate and seasons. These factors, along with the planet's distance from its star, can determine whether a planet is habitable or not.

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