Show that the satellite's orbital period P at large distances (r a) is given by

In summary, the conversation discusses the expression for orbital period of a satellite in a circular orbit at large distances, which is given by P=[(4pi/GM)^(1/2)] r^(3/2) (1-(3/4)((a^2)/(4r^2)) J(subscript2)). It also comments on the behavior of P as r approaches infinity. Relevant equations are g=(GM/(a^2))[-1-(3/2) J(subscript2)] and omega^2 r =(GM/(a^2))(-1-(3/2)J(subscript 2)), and the attempt at a solution involves finding T=((4pi^2)/GM)^(1/2
  • #1
blueyellow

Homework Statement



Assuming that the satellite's orbit is circular, show that its orbital period P at large distances (r>>a) is given by the expression:

P=[(4pi/GM)^(1/2)] r^(3/2) (1-(3/4)((a^2)/(4r^2)) J(subscript2))

Comment on the behavious of P in the limits as r approaches infinity

2relevant equations

g=(GM/(a^2))[-1-(3/2) J(subscript2)]

The Attempt at a Solution



omega^2 r =(GM/(a^2))(-1-(3/2)J(subscript 2))

(2pi/T)^2=(GM/(a^2))(-1-(3/2)J(subscript 2))

T=((4pi^2)/GM)^(1/2) sqrt [((a^2)r)/(m-(3/2)J2 -1)]
 
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  • #2


sorry I meant

T=((4pi^2)/GM)^(1/2) sqrt [((a^2)r)/(-(3/2)J2 -1)]

the 'm' in what I wrote before is not supposed to be there
 
  • #3


behaviour typo
 

Related to Show that the satellite's orbital period P at large distances (r a) is given by

1. What is the equation for calculating a satellite's orbital period at large distances?

The equation for calculating a satellite's orbital period at large distances is P = 2π√(a^3/GM), where P is the orbital period, a is the distance between the satellite and the center of mass of the body it is orbiting, G is the gravitational constant, and M is the mass of the body it is orbiting.

2. How does the distance between a satellite and the center of mass affect its orbital period?

The distance between a satellite and the center of mass has a direct impact on its orbital period. As the distance increases, the orbital period also increases, meaning the satellite takes longer to complete one orbit around the body it is orbiting.

3. What is the significance of the orbital period of a satellite?

The orbital period of a satellite is significant because it determines the time it takes for the satellite to complete one orbit around the body it is orbiting. This information is crucial for accurately predicting the satellite's position and trajectory, which is important for various applications such as navigation and communication.

4. How does the mass of the body being orbited affect the satellite's orbital period?

The mass of the body being orbited also has a direct effect on the satellite's orbital period. A larger mass will result in a longer orbital period, while a smaller mass will result in a shorter orbital period.

5. Can the equation for calculating a satellite's orbital period be used for any type of orbit?

Yes, the equation P = 2π√(a^3/GM) can be used for any type of orbit, as long as the satellite is at a large distance from the body it is orbiting. However, for more accurate calculations, other factors such as the shape and eccentricity of the orbit must also be considered.

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