Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Jupiter's moon Ganymede orbits from Jupiter's centre, once every days. Find Jupiter's mass. (.)
In a circular orbit of radius : , , independent of the satellite's mass. Its energies: , , .
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. .
Step 2. .
Answer: About , some Earths.
Check. Every moon of Jupiter gives the same mass, a good test of the method.
Watch out. The moon's own mass cancels; you cannot weigh Ganymede this way.
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