A probe moves in a circular orbit of radius about an asteroid whose gravitational…

PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Fields and their consequences · Fields and their consequences

Problem

A probe moves in a circular orbit of radius rr about an asteroid whose gravitational parameter is μ\mu. The probe performs an instantaneous burn to escape from the asteroid’s gravity while remaining at the same location. What is the minimum increase in speed Δv\Delta v that the probe must achieve? (a) 2 μr\sqrt{2}\,\sqrt{\dfrac{\mu}{r}} (b) 12 μr\dfrac{1}{\sqrt{2}}\,\sqrt{\dfrac{\mu}{r}} (c) (2−1) μr(\sqrt{2}-1)\,\sqrt{\dfrac{\mu}{r}} (d) (2−2) μr(2-\sqrt{2})\,\sqrt{\dfrac{\mu}{r}}

Related theory

Browse the problem library