How can I measure the orbital period of a satellite around Earth?

In order to find the orbital period of a satellite around earth, you must understand the forces at play in this situation. You must equate the two radial forces acting on the satellite - these are Newton's law of gravitational attraction between the satellite and the earth, and the centripetal force acting on the satellite. (You can imagine the centripetal force as the tension in an invisible wire connecting the satellite to the earth as it attempts to move away and is pulled back in as it orbits). By equating these two forces you will be able to cancel down the like-coefficients and be left with the equation of orbital velocity for the Satellite. After this you must realise that the period can be related to the velocity by the speed-distance-time relation, where orbital period is the inverse of orbital time.

Answered by Alexander E. Physics tutor

3053 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

With the help of a suitably labelled graph, explain what is meant by resonance of a mechanical system.


There is a point between the Moon and the Earth where the gravitational attractions are equal and opposite. How much further is this point from the Earth than the Moon


This Question is a multi-parter but all around the same scenario. Similar to an end of paper A-level physics question.


How might you use sound waves to smash a glass? What are other examples of resonance in everyday life?


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 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences