Kepler Problem - Mathematical Definition

Mathematical Definition

The central force F that varies in strength as the inverse square of the distance r between them:


\mathbf{F} = \frac{k}{r^{2}} \mathbf{\hat{r}}

where k is a constant and represents the unit vector along the line between them. The force may be either attractive (k<0) or repulsive (k>0). The corresponding scalar potential (the potential energy of the non-central body) is:


V(r) = \frac{k}{r}

Read more about this topic:  Kepler Problem

Famous quotes containing the words mathematical and/or definition:

    It is by a mathematical point only that we are wise, as the sailor or the fugitive slave keeps the polestar in his eye; but that is sufficient guidance for all our life. We may not arrive at our port within a calculable period, but we would preserve the true course.
    Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)

    The man who knows governments most completely is he who troubles himself least about a definition which shall give their essence. Enjoying an intimate acquaintance with all their particularities in turn, he would naturally regard an abstract conception in which these were unified as a thing more misleading than enlightening.
    William James (1842–1910)