Edexcel IGCSE Physics 8.6 Orbital speed equation

Practise applying v = 2πr/T to orbital motion, using graph or table data, rearranging the equation and converting units correctly.

Exam points

calculate v, r or T using v = 2πr/T with correct rearrangement
convert days, years, km or cm before substituting into the orbital equation
use orbit tables or graphs to compare time periods, radii and speeds

[Maximum number: 3]

A star has a circular orbit around the centre of a galaxy.

The star is 29 000 light years away from the centre of the galaxy and has an
orbital speed of 220 km/s.
Calculate the time period of the star’s orbit around the centre of the galaxy.
Give your answer in standard form.

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8.6 Orbital speed equation question 1