On February 9, 1986, Comet Halley was at its closest point to the Sun, about 9.0 × 1010 m from the center of the Sun. The average power output of the Sun is 3.8 × 1026 W.(a) Calculate the radiation pressure on the comet at this point in its orbit. Assume that the comet reflects all the incident light.(b) Suppose that a 10-kg chunk of material of cross-sectional area 4.0 × 10−2 m2 breaks loose from the comet. Calculate the force on this chunk due to the solar radiation. Compare this force with the gravitational force of the Sun.
On February 9, 1986, Comet Halley was at its closest point to the Sun, about 9.0 × 1010 m from the center of the Sun. The average power output of the Sun is 3.8 × 1026 W.(a) Calculate the radiation pressure on the comet at this point in its orbit. Assume that the comet reflects all the incident light.(b) Suppose that a 10-kg chunk of material of cross-sectional area 4.0 × 10−2 m2 breaks loose from the comet. Calculate the force on this chunk due to the solar radiation. Compare this force with the gravitational force of the Sun.
Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Foundations and Connections
1st Edition
ISBN:9781133939146
Author:Katz, Debora M.
Publisher:Katz, Debora M.
Chapter34: Maxwell’s Equations And Electromagnetic Waves
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 79PQ
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On February 9, 1986, Comet Halley was at its closest point to the Sun, about 9.0 × 1010 m from the center of the Sun. The average power output of the Sun is 3.8 × 1026 W.
(a) Calculate the
(b) Suppose that a 10-kg chunk of material of cross-sectional area 4.0 × 10−2 m2 breaks loose from the comet. Calculate the force on this chunk due to the solar radiation. Compare this force with the gravitational force of the Sun.
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