Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 13 - Newton's Theory of Gravity - Conceptual Questions - Page 353: 9

Answer

The correct answer is c. 11.9 years

Work Step by Step

Let $M_s$ be the mass of the sun. Let $R$ be Jupiter's orbital radius. We can write an expression for the period $T$ of Jupiter's orbit. $T^2 = \frac{4\pi^2~R^3}{G~M_s}$ $T = \sqrt{\frac{4\pi^2~R^3}{G~M_s}}$ Since the period does not depend on the mass of the object in orbit, any object with the orbital radius of $R$ around the sun would have the same period. Therefore, the earth would also have a period of 11.9 years. The correct answer is c. 11.9 years.
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