Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The formula T = 2 x pi x sqrt(r^3 / GM) represents the period (T) of an object in circular orbit around a central mass. It relates the period to the radius (r) of the orbit, the gravitational constant (G), and the mass (M) of the central object.
This constant, denoted by G, represents the strength of gravity between two objects. It determines how much force is exerted between them based on their masses and distance.
Newton (N): A unit of measurement for force. In this context, it refers to forces involved in gravitational interactions or any other type of force acting on an object.
An orbit in which an object moves around another object in a circular path due to gravitational attraction. The centripetal force required for this motion is provided by gravity.