Question

Find the tension in the rope connecting between two satellites Of masses M rounding the earth at distances R1 and R2 In such a way that the rope always is directed along the orbit radius. The earth's mass equals W

Answer 1

Solution-

Use simple rotation in a circular orbit to find the value to tension in the rope, negate the gravitational force between satelites

As given the rope always along the radius of the orbit that implies the angular speed is the same for both the satellite.

Use the figure,

Write the equation of equilibrium for both satellite,

For S1

......(i)

For S2

......(ii)

Solve equation (i) and (ii) and find tension,

T is the tension in the rope.