All questions
AP Physics 1
6.6 Motion of Orbiting Satellites
3.4 Conservation of Energy
3.3 Potential Energy
2.9 Circular Motion
Multi-Unit
AdvancedMCQMathematicalConceptual24k
Satellite in circular orbits of radii \(r_0\) and \(2r_0\) around a planet of mass \(M\).
Satellite in circular orbits of radii \(r_0\) and \(2r_0\) around a planet of mass \(M\).
A satellite of mass \(m\) is in a circular orbit of radius \(r_0\) around a planet of mass \(M\), where its initial kinetic energy is \(K_0\). Thrusters are fired to transfer the satellite into a larger circular orbit of radius \(2r_0\). The gravitational potential energy of the satellite-planet system is defined to be zero at infinite separation.

Which row in the table correctly relates the change in kinetic energy \(\Delta K\), the change in gravitational potential energy \(\Delta U_g\), and the change in total mechanical energy \(\Delta E\) of the satellite-planet system between the two orbits in terms of \(K_0\)?

Change in Kinetic Energy, \(\Delta K\)Change in Potential Energy, \(\Delta U_g\)Change in Mechanical Energy, \(\Delta E\)
(A)\(+\dfrac{1}{2}K_0\)\(-K_0\)\(-\dfrac{1}{2}K_0\)
(B)\(-\dfrac{1}{2}K_0\)\(-K_0\)\(-\dfrac{3}{2}K_0\)
(C)\(-K_0\)\(+2K_0\)\(+K_0\)
(D)\(-\dfrac{1}{2}K_0\)\(+K_0\)\(+\dfrac{1}{2}K_0\)

Log In to Continue

Accounts are free! Log in to try this question, see explanations, save progress, and more!

Tools for a 5