Saved Bookmarks
| 1. |
(a)Define critical velocity. (2)Derive the formula of critical velocity |
|
Answer» Solution :(a)The satellite is given a specific velocity known as the critical velocity `(V_c)` in a tangential DIRECTION to the orbit. The satellite then starts revolving around the earth. (b) The formula for the velocity `v_c` can be DERIVED as below. If a satellite of mass 'm' is revolving around the earth in an orbit of height 'h' with speed `v_c` then as seen in the chapter on 'Gravitation' , a centripetal force `(mv_c^2)/r` will act on it. Here 'r' is theorbital RADIUS of the satellite from THECENTRE of the earth. This centripetal force is provided by the gravity of the earth. (c ) Therefore , centripetal force = gravitational force between the Earth and satellite. `(mv_c^2)/(R+h)=(GMm)/((R+h)^2)` `V_c^2=(GM)/(R+h)` `v_c=sqrt((GM)/(R+h))` |
|