Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Gravitational force between point masses

Gravitational force between point masses — practice question

(a)[2]

State Newton’s law of gravitation.

(b)

A satellite with mass $m$ moves in a circular orbit of radius $r$ around a planet of mass $M$. For this planet, the value of $GM$ is $4.00 \times 10^{14} \text{N m}^2\text{ kg}^{-1}$, where $G$ is the gravitational constant. You may assume that the planet is isolated in space.

(b(i))[2]

Using the gravitational force on the satellite together with the centripetal force, show that the kinetic energy $E_{K}$ of the satellite is given by $E_{K} = \frac{GMm}{2r}$.

(b(ii))

The satellite’s mass is $620\ \text{kg}$ and it starts in a circular orbit of radius $7.34 \times 10^{6}\ \text{m}$, as shown in Fig. 1.1.

(b(iii))[2]

Use your answers in (ii) to explain whether the linear speed of the satellite increases, decreases or stays the same when the radius of the orbit decreases.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The force varies in direct proportion to the product of the masses

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