In: Physics
A satellite of mass m is launched from the Earth’s surface at v that is slightly less than the escape speed vesc. The ratio of the satellite launch speed v to the escape speed vesc is defined as f = v/vesc. The satellite is launched straight up. Before coming back down, the satellite momentarily comes to a stop at an altitude h above the surface of the Earth. (a) In terms of the satellite launch speed ratio f, Re, and other needed parameters, what is the maximum height h (6 points)? (b) Let f = v/vesc = 0.92136. What is the altitude h for this f? The mass and radius of the Earth (Me and Re) are 5.97 x 1024 kg and 6,371 km respectively (3 points).Assume this satellite goes into a circular orbit around the Earth at the altitude h calculated in 8(b) above. What is the period (T) in days for this orbit (6 points)? (d) What is special about the orbit with the period calculated in 8(c) above? Carefully explain your answer (2 points)