Classical Mechanics · Central-force motion and scattering
The Kepler virial theorem fixes mean energies
Problem
For a bound orbit in $U(r)=-k/r$, use $G=\mathbf p\cdot\mathbf r$ to derive the time-averaged virial theorem without assuming a circular orbit. Express $\langle T\rangle$ and $\langle U\rangle$ in terms of total energy $E$ and semimajor axis $a$. For a unit mass with $\mu=k/m=3.986\times10^{14}\,\mathrm{m^3/s^2}$ and $a=1.00\times10^7\,\mathrm m$, compute the mean specific kinetic and potential energies.
Hint
$d(\mathbf p\cdot\mathbf r)/dt=2T+\mathbf r\cdot\mathbf F$.
Check your work
Work the problem yourself first. Then open it in Training to check your answer and read the full worked solution.
The answer check and full solution for this problem come with ProofAnvil Practice membership ($19 USD monthly). See membership. Or start with the free Classical Mechanics sample problem: Try the free sample problem.
More Classical Mechanics practice problems
- Angular momentum about a translating point carries a transport termNewtonian mechanics and conservation laws
- A discrete spatial symmetry does not create angular-momentum conservationNewtonian mechanics and conservation laws
- Rayleigh dissipation supplies the correct damping signConstraints and Lagrangian mechanics
- The brachistochrone first integral generates a cycloidConstraints and Lagrangian mechanics
- Radial speed contributes no angular momentumCentral-force motion and scattering
- A coordinate-dependent mass freezes at linear orderSmall oscillations and normal modes
- A diatomic lattice opens an acoustic-optical gapSmall oscillations and normal modes
- Principal axes of a coupled planar inertia tensorRigid bodies and rotating frames
- Energy ellipse and enclosed action of an oscillatorHamiltonian mechanics and canonical structure