Satellite Motion Mathematics
The Satellite Motion Mathematics Video Tutorial describes the physics formulas used to analyze the motion of a satellite.Three numerical examples of their use are provided.
The video lesson answers the following questions:
- What are the important formulas that describe the speed, acceleration, force, and period for satellites?
- How are the formulas used?
Video
You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).
To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:
Additional and Related Learning Tools
Minds On Physics, Mission CG8: Satellite Motion
This mission from our Minds On Physics program is more conceptual than mathematical. But you will find several questoins that target your understandings of the orbtial speed equation as described on the first few slides of the video.
Calculator Pad, Circular and Satellite Motion, Questions #19-#27
When you have physics word problems, we have he Calculator Pad. Come and learn how to solve problems by practice, checking answers, and listening to our audio-guided solutions. If you haven't ever tried this section, you might be missing something.
Physics Classroom Tutorial: Circular and Satellite Motion Chapter: Mathematics of Satellite Motion
Try our written Tutorial when you need a quick reference on a topic. It's an easy read, very explanative, and a great way to follow-up on something not understood in the video.
Teacher Resources
Curriculum Corner, Circular Motion and Gravitation
Get students active and thinking with our free Think Sheets from the Curriclum Corner section of our website. The following Think Sheet is an excellent fit to this video:
Satellite Motion
Teacher Toolkits, Satellite Motion
Try a Teacher Toolkit ... you might be very glad that you did. Each toolkit includes annotated links to vetted resources from across the web that we feel reliably support the specific topic. This one on satellite motion includes resources applicable to a unit or portion of a unit on satellite motion.
Minds On Physics, Circular Motion and Gravitation Module, Mission CG8: Satellite Motion
This interactive question mission from our Minds On Physics program will test students' understanding (and possibly, their patience). If they stick with it, anduse the Help button, they will likely come out on the other side with a stronger understanding of satellite motion.
Calculator Pad, Circular and Satellite Motion, Questions #19-#27
Our Calculator Pad section includes a large collection of problems of varying difficulty. Each problem is accompanied by an answer and an audio-guided solution. Send students there for help.
Physics Classroom Tutorial: Circular and Satellite Motion Chapter: Mathematics of Satellite Motion
This tutorial page is as close to the written version of our Tutorial that you can find. It's a great reference when students need one. Consider placing a link to the page on your course space.
Physics Interactives, Orbital Motion Simulation
Often times, the best way to learn is to play. And at our site, that means a trip to our simulation pages at The Physics Interactives section. This simulation allows students to change the eccentricity and view the orbital path and the velocity and force vectors along the path. It comes with a classroom-ready, student-friendly activity sheet to use with your lesson.
Physics Classroom Tutorial, Circular and Satellite Motion Chapter, Circular Motion Principles for Satellites
This tutorial page is as close to the written version of our Tutorial that you can find. It's a great reference when students need one. Consider placing a link to the page on your course space.
Lesson Notes
Download (opens in a new tab) or view below
Slides
Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.