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A binary star system consists of two equal mass stars that revolve in circular orbits about their center of mass. The period of the motion, T=29.6 days, and the orbital speed v= 220 km/s of the stars can be measured from telescopic observations. What is the mass (kg) of each star?

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Casey

  1. Each has a force holding it to the other.

    F=GM^2/d^2

    this is equal to centripetal acceleration.

    GM^2/d^2=v^2/(d/2)^2

    check my thinking. solve for M

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    bobpursley

  2. Using Newton's law and the law of universal graviation:

    F=ma
    Acceleration is centripital acceleration, so a=(v^2)/r

    so G(m^2/r^2)=m(v^2/r)

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    Robin

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