Gravitational Fields

Question 1

Escape velocity

Answer 1

The minimum velocity required by an object to be able to escape a gravitational field of a mass when projected vertically from its surface

Question 2

Geostationary satellite

Answer 2

A satellite that orbits above the equator with a 24hr period, so it will always remain above the same position on the Earth. They orbit approximately 36,000Km above the surface of the Earth

Question 3

Gravitational field

Answer 3

A region surrounding a mass in which any other object with mass will experience an attractive force

Question 4

Gravitational field strength

Answer 4

The force per unit mass exerted on a small test mass placed within a field

Question 5

Gravitational potential

Answer 5

The work done per unit mass required to move a small test mass from infinity to that point

Question 6

Gravitational potential energy

Answer 6

The component of an object’s energy due to its position in a gravitational field

Question 7

Kepler’s third law

Answer 7

The square of an objects orbital period is directly proportional to the cube of its orbital radius