Question

which factor is not needed when calculating the velocity of a satellite orbiting a planet? (1 point)
○ the orbital radius of the satellite
○ the mass of the satellite
○ the mass of the planet
○ the universal gravitational constant

Explanation:

To find the orbital velocity \( v \) of a satellite around a planet, we use the formula derived from equating gravitational force to centripetal force: \( \frac{GMm}{r^2} = \frac{mv^2}{r} \), where \( G \) is the universal gravitational constant, \( M \) is the mass of the planet, \( m \) is the mass of the satellite, and \( r \) is the orbital radius. Simplifying this formula, we get \( v = \sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}} \). Here, the mass of the satellite (\( m \)) cancels out, so it is not needed for the calculation. The orbital radius (\( r \)), mass of the planet (\( M \)), and universal gravitational constant (\( G \)) are all required.

Answer:

the mass of the satellite