Calculating Gravitational Force On A Satellite

Solving for gravitational force exerted between two objects.

Calculating gravitational force on a satellite.

In space gravity supplies the centripetal force that causes satellites like the moon to orbit larger bodies like the earth. Let us assume that the force of gravitation f g exists between them. On the surface of the earth the two forces are related by the acceleration due to gravity. If you want a more exact approximation of force you can still use the above equation f grav gm earth m d 2 to determine force of gravity.

When you are ready to start the problem click on the begin button and when you have worked out your answers hit end to submit your results. For example the force between earth and sun is as high as 3 54 10 22 n. F g mg. On earth the force of gravity causes objects to accelerate at a rate of 9 8 m s 2.

By steven holzner. Newton s law of gravity calculator solving for force given object 1 mass. Gravitational force on satellite in this problem you will be calculating the gravitational force from a heavenly body on an orbiting satellite. Mass is considered a measure of an object s inertia and its weight is the force exerted on the object in a gravitational field.

On the earth s surface we can use the simplified equation f grav mg to calculate the force of gravity. The gravitational force between a mass and the earth is the object s weight. It will use the gravity equation to find the force. Kilograms and slugs are units of.

F grav g m sat. If the satellite moves in circular motion then the net centripetal force acting upon this orbiting satellite is given by the relationship. Consider that two masses m 1 and m 2 as shown in the figure are separated by a distance r. You can now read the result.

G is the universal gravitational constant g 6 6726 x 10 11 n m 2 kg 2. Thanks to physics if you know the mass and altitude of a satellite in orbit around the earth you can calculate how quickly it needs to travel to maintain that orbit. Science physics newton s law of gravity. F net m sat v 2 r.

Enter all of these values into the gravitational force calculator. This net centripetal force is the result of the gravitational force that attracts the satellite towards the central body and can be represented as.