Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems · Problem 2-49

Oscillations — Marion & Thornton

Physics — Mechanics · binary-star-unequal-mass-kepler-third-law

Problem

Two gravitationally bound stars with unequal masses m1m_1 and m2m_2, separated by a distance dd, revolve about their center of mass in circular orbits. Show that the period τ\tau is proportional to d3/2d^{3/2} (Kepler's Third Law) and find the proportionality constant.

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