Question

The total energy of a satellite in circular orbit is:

Options

• +\[\frac {1}{2}\frac {GMm}{r}\]

• -\[\frac {1}{2}\frac {GMm}{r}\]

• \[\frac {GMm}{r}\]

• 0

Answer 1

-\[\frac {1}{2}\frac {GMm}{r}\]

Explanation:

Total Energy = K.E. + P.E. = ½ GMm/r - GMm/r = -½ GMm/r. The negative total energy indicates the satellite is bound to Earth.