 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
circular velocity
The horizontal velocity of an object required to keep it in a circular orbit at a given altitude about a planet or other gravitating mass. It is given by √[G(M + m)/R], where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the central body, m is the mass of the orbiting body (which can be ignored, for example, in the case of an orbiting spacecraft), and R is the distance separating the orbiter from the center of the gravitating body.
Related entry
• orbital velocity
Related categories
• CELESTIAL MECHANICS
• CLASSICAL MECHANICS
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)