Question

The radius of a planet is “R” and mass is “M”. A satellite revolves around it in an orbital radius of “r” and an orbital velocity “v”. How would you express the acceleration due to gravity on the surface of the planet?

(a) (r^3*v/R)

(b) (r^2*v^3/R)

(c) (r^3*v^2/R)

(d) (r*v^2/R^2)

The question was asked in class test.

My question comes from Gravitation in division Gravitation of Physics – Class 11

Answer 1

The correct answer is (d) (r*v^2/R^2)

Explanation: Orbital velocity (v) = [(G x M) / r]^1/2

(G x M) = v^2 x r

Acceleration due to gravity (g) = (G x M) / R^2

Therefore; g = (v^2 x r) / R^2.