Understanding formula F=GmM/r^2 confusion help

In summary, Scientists want to place a 2900.0 kg satellite in orbit around Mars at a distance of 1.6 times the planet's radius. Using the given information of Mars' mass, radius, and the universal gravitational constant, we can calculate the force of attraction between Mars and the satellite using the equation F=GmM/r^2.
  • #1
aruji73
19
0

Homework Statement



Scientists want to place a 2900.0 kg satellite in orbit around Mars. They plan to have the satellite orbit a distance equal to 1.6 times the radius of Mars above the surface of the planet. Here is some information that will help solve this problem:



mmars = 6.4191 x 10^23 kg
rmars = 3.397 x 10^6 m
G = 6.67428 x 10^-11 N-m2/kg2

1) What is the force of attraction between Mars and the satellite?




Homework Equations



F=GmM/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution




((6.67428e-11)*(6.491e+23)*(2900))/(1.6*3.397e+6)^2
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Where is the satellite's height measured from?
 
  • #3

FAQ: Understanding formula F=GmM/r^2 confusion help

What is the formula for calculating gravitational force?

The formula for calculating gravitational force is F = GmM/r^2, where F is the force of gravity, G is the gravitational constant, m and M are the masses of the two objects, and r is the distance between the two objects.

What does each variable in the formula represent?

The variable F represents the force of gravity between two objects, G represents the gravitational constant, m and M represent the masses of the two objects, and r represents the distance between the two objects.

What is the significance of the gravitational constant in the formula?

The gravitational constant, G, is a fundamental constant that is used to calculate the force of gravity between two objects. It is a measure of how strong the force of gravity is between two objects with a certain mass and distance. Its value is approximately 6.67 x 10^-11 Nm^2/kg^2.

How does the distance between two objects affect the force of gravity?

The force of gravity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between two objects. This means that as the distance between two objects increases, the force of gravity between them decreases. Conversely, as the distance between two objects decreases, the force of gravity between them increases.

Can the formula be used for all objects in the universe?

The formula for calculating gravitational force, F = GmM/r^2, is a universal law of gravitation that can be applied to all objects in the universe. However, it is most accurate for objects that are not moving at high speeds or have extremely large masses.

Similar threads

What is the force of attraction between mars and the satellite?
Replies
4
Views
7K
Satellite Orbit Around Mars: Force & Speed Calculation
Replies
6
Views
12K
Calculating radius in circular motion without frequency or force?
Replies
2
Views
4K
Finding r of a Jovian-synchronous orbit and escape velocity
Replies
7
Views
2K
Potential Energy and raising a satellite from Earth into a Circular Orbit
Replies
5
Views
2K
Centripetal Acceleration of Satellite
Replies
7
Views
2K
Centripetal Force / circular motion question
Replies
7
Views
3K
Change in momentum for a satellite in circular orbit
Replies
6
Views
3K
Help with circular velocity question (unit conversions?)
Replies
2
Views
2K
Calculate gravitational field strength above surface of Mars
Replies
6
Views
15K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top