What is the orbital velocity and period of a ring particle at the outer edge of Saturn’s A ring? (Hint: Use the formula for circular velocity, Eq. 5-1a. The formula requires input quantities in kg and m.) (Note: The radius of the outer edge of the A ring is 136,500 km.)
The orbital velocity and period of a ring particle at the outer edge of Saturn’s A ring.
Answer to Problem 9P
The orbital velocity of a ring particle at the outer edge of Saturn’s A ring is
Explanation of Solution
Write the expression for the orbital velocity.
Here,
Write the expression for the time period.
Here,
From the celestial profile, the mass of the Saturn is
Conclusion:
Substitute
Substitute
Therefore, the orbital velocity of a ring particle at the outer edge of Saturn’s A ring is
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Chapter 22 Solutions
Foundations of Astronomy (MindTap Course List)
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