Physics

Physics

Problem

Satellite A of mass mm travels in a circular orbit of radius rr with speed vv. Satellite B has mass 2m2m and travels in a circular orbit of radius 2r2r with the same speed vv. What is the ratio of their angular momenta, LB/LAL_B/L_A? a) 22 b) 88 c) 44 d) 11
Intuitive explanation

Angular momentum measures how much rotational "oomph" an object has—it's the product of mass, speed, and orbital radius. Even though both satellites move at the same speed, they differ in mass and distance from the center, so their angular momenta will be different. Calculate L=mvrL = mvr for each satellite and compare.

Intuitive explanation

Angular momentum measures how much rotational "oomph" an object has—it's the product of mass, speed, and orbital radius. Even though both satellites move at the same speed, they differ in mass and distance from the center, so their angular momenta will be different. Calculate L=mvrL = mvr for each satellite and compare.

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