An object orbits Earth at an altitude of 200 kilometers above the planet’s surface. What is its speed and orbital period?

To begin with, we need to draw a graph with all of the forces acting on a body.

From that, we can see that the net force Fnet = Fg - Fc , where Fg is gravitational force and Fc is centripetal force acting on a body.

Due to the fact, that the object is in a stable orbit around the Earth, Fnet = 0 N and Fg = Fc -> GmM/(R+h)^2=mv^2/(R+h) -> GM/(R+h)=v^2 and v = (GM/(R+h))^0.5

Inserting values for Earth’s mass (M=5.972×10^24 kg) , and radius (R=6 371 km), we get that v=7785.9 m/s

To find the orbital period, we use the formula T = 2 * pi * (R+h) / v = 5302.8 s

DA
Answered by Domas A. Physics tutor

2517 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of nuclear fission is induced


How do I resolve forces on a slope?


From the 2016 OCR B paper A ball is thrown at an angle of 30 Degrees to the horizontal. The initial kinetic energy of the ball is K. Air resistance is negligible. What is the kinetic energy of the ball at the maximum height.


Explain how Maxima and Minima occur in Young's double slit experiment


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences