Newton’s cannon ball and the moon

In summary, the conversation discusses the comparison between the orbit of the moon and the trajectory of a cannon ball launched by Newton's cannon. The statement suggests that the moon orbits the Earth in a similar way to the cannon ball falling around the Earth. The participant agrees with the statement and raises a question about the difference between the orbit of a low Earth orbit (LEO) and the moon. They also mention that the moon's orbit may be more elliptical, but they are unsure if a cannon ball would also orbit in an elliptical path. They further inquire about the equations and variables that determine orbital velocity and radius.
  • #1
runner2392
11
0
This applet was used for the hw: http://galileo.phys.virginia.edu/classes/109N/more_stuff/Applets/newt/newtmtn.html

Explain or critique the following statement: “Just like Newton’s cannon ball, the moon orbits the Earth because it falls around the earth.”

I agree with the statement. Is there a difference between the orbit of an LEO and the moon? I think the moon's orbit is more elliptical but not sure if a cannon ball would also orbit elliptically once launched into orbit.
 
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  • #2
well, what equations do you know how orbital velocity and radius, what are the variables in them?
 

FAQ: Newton’s cannon ball and the moon

1. How did Newton use a cannon ball to explain the motion of the moon?

Newton used the cannon ball thought experiment to illustrate the concept of gravity and how it affects the motion of objects in space.

2. What is the significance of the moon in Newton's cannon ball experiment?

The moon was used as an example of an object in orbit around the Earth, showing how gravity keeps it in a constant state of motion.

3. How does Newton's cannon ball experiment support his laws of motion?

The experiment demonstrates Newton's first law of motion, which states that an object in motion will continue in a straight line at a constant speed unless acted upon by an external force.

4. Can the cannon ball experiment be used to explain other celestial bodies?

Yes, the same principles of gravity and motion can be applied to other celestial bodies like planets and stars.

5. Is the cannon ball experiment an accurate representation of the moon's motion?

No, the experiment is a simplified illustration and does not take into account other factors such as the moon's elliptical orbit and the gravitational forces of other celestial bodies.

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