Question

16. At a particular point, a satellite in an elliptical orbit has a gravitational potential energy of 7000 MJ with respect to Earth’s surface and a kinetic energy of 4000 MJ. At another point in its orbit, the satellite’s potential energy is 2000 MJ. What is its kinetic energy at that point? Show all calculations leading to your answer.

Answer 1

Assuming conservation of energy:

Energy before = 7000 + 4000 = 11 000 MJ

Energy after = 2000 + Kinetic = 11 000

Therefore Kinetic = 11 000 - 2 000

Kinetic = 9 000 MJ