ANALYZING MOTION IN A SOLAR SYSTEM
Go to: http://phet.colorado.edu/sims/my-solar-system/my-solar-system_en.html -run the SIM
1. Run the sim with the sun and planet- if the X value is the distance in Km and the Mass is in Kg
calculate the Force of gravity used to maintain the system:
2.
On the right hand corner select Sun-Planet-Moon and analyze the moons orbit, explain why it is
different than the pattern created by the earth:
3. Calculate the Fg for the moon and earth, and for the moon and sun compare these values.
4. Hit reset and adjust the planets distance so it is 50% closer to the sun, what happens when you
run the sim.
5. Adjust the size or speed to create a stable orbit explain the adjustments you made.
Open the sim at: http://lasp.colorado.edu/education/outerplanets/orbit_simulator/
6.
Explain the differences with this sim and the phet sim.
7. Discuss the values of Planet X and how you can change them