Question

A satellite is orbiting the earth at a distance $r$. Variations of its kinetic energy, potential energy, and total energy, are shown in the figure. Of the three curves shown in the figure, Identify the type of mechanical energy they represent

• A. $1$ Potential, $2$ Kinetic, $3$ Total
• B. $1$ Total, $2$ Kinetic, $3$ Potential
• C. $1$ Kinetic, $2$ Total, $3$ Potential
• D. $1$ Potential, $2$ Total, $3$ Kinetic

Answer 1

The correct option is C $1$ Kinetic, $2$ Total, $3$ Potential

The kinetic energy of the satellite

$k=\frac{GMm}{2r}$

Potential energy of the satellite

$U=\frac{-GMm}{r}$

total energy of the satellite, $E=\frac{-GMm}{2r}$

In the figure,

$\bullet$ Variation of K and r is shown by curve 1

$\bullet$ Variation of U and r is shown by curve 3

$\bullet$ Variation of E and r is shown by curve 2

Hence, option C is correct.