A group of students try to predict the Earth\'s orbit around the Sun by calculat

Question

A group of students try to predict the Earth's orbit around the Sun by calculating the force on Earth due to the Sun, multiplying this force by a time step of three months, then adding this impulse to a known initial momentum: p_f = p_i + F_grav * delta t. They then use p_f to update the Earth's position using a known initial position: r_f = r_i + [(p_f)/(M_E)]*delta t. Why are their results not accurate?

I. They needed to use [(M_E)v^2]/r = F_grav.
II. They did not use enough significant figures.
III. They neglected air resistance.
IV. They assumed the force on the Earth was constant in magnitude and direction over three months.
V. The momentum principle doesn't apply to gravitational forces except near the surface of the Earth.

Choose from these statements:
a. only I
b. only III
c. I and III
d. only II
e. IV and V
f. III and IV
g. IV only
h. V only
i. I and V
j. II and IV

Explanation / Answer

g. IV only

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