Gravitational Potential energy question

In summary, the conversation is discussing the calculation of various energies associated with a satellite in circular orbit above Earth's surface. The gravitational potential energy has been calculated to be -3.13 x 10^10 J, but the kinetic energy and binding energy have not been determined due to uncertainty about the radius of the orbit. The use of the Schwarzschild Radius equation is not applicable in this scenario.
  • #1
MasterAsia
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Homework Statement


a 5.00 x 10^2 kg satelilite is in circular orbit 2.00 x 10^2 km above Earth's surface. calculate

a) gravitaional potential energy which i got, which is -3.13 x 10^10 J
b) kinetic energy of the satellite
c) binding energy of satellite
d) the percentage increase in launching energy required for the satellite to escape earth

Homework Equations



2GM/c^2

Eg = - GMem/re

The Attempt at a Solution



v = sqroot GM/r for the velocity then using the equation 1/2mv^2 to get the Ek, but i don't know how to get the radius so i can plug it into the Ek equation.
 
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  • #2
The Earth has a radius of 6000 km.
 
  • #3
How did you get the gravitational potential without knowing the radius?
2GM/c^2
That's Schwarzschild Radius. That is not a relevant equation for this problem.
 

What is gravitational potential energy?

Gravitational potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is the potential of an object to do work as a result of its vertical position or height.

What is the equation for calculating gravitational potential energy?

The equation for calculating gravitational potential energy is GPE = mgh, where m represents the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height or vertical position of the object.

How does gravitational potential energy change with height?

Gravitational potential energy increases as an object's height increases. This is because the higher an object is positioned in a gravitational field, the more potential it has to do work.

What is the unit of measurement for gravitational potential energy?

The unit of measurement for gravitational potential energy is joules (J). This is the same unit used to measure other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy and thermal energy.

Can gravitational potential energy be converted into other forms of energy?

Yes, gravitational potential energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy. When an object falls from a height, its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as it gains speed.

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