Calculate the change in gravitational potential energy

In summary, gravitational potential energy is the energy an object has based on its position in a gravitational field. It is calculated by multiplying mass, acceleration due to gravity, and height, and is measured in joules. Changes in gravitational potential energy can affect an object's motion and are influenced by factors such as mass, height, and external forces.
  • #1
ASidd
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Homework Statement


A satellite of mass 750kg is changed from an orbital radius of 7000000m to a geostationary orbit of 4.2*10^4. Calculate the change in its gravitational potential energy

Mass= 750
Earths radius= 6380000m
Gravitational constant= 6.67*10^-11
Earths mass=6*10^24

Homework Equations



So I am guessing I have to use this equation
Final Gpe- initial Gpe
(-GMm/r)-(-GMm/r)

The Attempt at a Solution


(-6.67*10^-11*750*6*10^24/(7000000+6380000))-(-6.67*10^-11*750*6*10^24/(4.2*10^4*10^3)
= 1.69 *10^10

The answer is 3.7*10^8
I don't know where I went wrong?
 
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  • #2
what is the new radius?
 

1. What is gravitational potential energy?

Gravitational potential energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its position in a gravitational field. It is the potential to do work based on its height and mass, and is dependent on the strength of the gravitational force acting on the object.

2. How is gravitational potential energy calculated?

Gravitational potential energy can be calculated by multiplying the mass of an object by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²) and the height or distance the object has been raised or lowered in the gravitational field. The formula is PE = mgh, where m is the mass in kilograms, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height in meters.

3. 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 all other forms of energy.

4. How does the change in gravitational potential energy affect an object?

The change in gravitational potential energy can affect the motion and behavior of an object. If an object gains gravitational potential energy by being raised to a higher position, it will have more potential to do work as it falls. Similarly, if an object loses gravitational potential energy by falling to a lower position, it will gain kinetic energy and increase its speed.

5. What factors can affect the change in gravitational potential energy?

The change in gravitational potential energy is affected by the mass and height of an object, as well as the strength of the gravitational field it is in. Additionally, any external forces acting on the object, such as air resistance, can also influence the change in gravitational potential energy.

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