Change in energy in orbiting satellite.

AI Thread Summary
A satellite with a mass of 45.5 kg transitions from an orbit of 7271 km to 7356 km around Earth. The total energies for both orbits were calculated as -1.2458 GJ for the lower orbit and -1.2315 GJ for the higher orbit. The difference in these energy values indicates the work done by all forces acting on the satellite during the transition. The discussion highlights the importance of considering both potential and kinetic energies in the calculations. Ultimately, the problem emphasizes using conservation of energy principles to determine the work done.
Gianf
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Homework Statement


A satellite of mass 45.5 kg orbiting the Earth moves from an orbit of 7271 km to an orbit of 7356 km.
what is the work done by all forces acting on it?


Homework Equations


U=GMm/r


The Attempt at a Solution


I calculated the total energies of the satellite in both orbits which is -1/2GMm/r
This gave -1.2458Gj for the lower orbit and -1.2315 for the higher one.
Should the difference be the total work done?
 
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Gianf said:

Homework Statement


A satellite of mass 45.5 kg orbiting the Earth moves from an orbit of 7271 km to an orbit of 7356 km.
what is the work done by all forces acting on it?


Homework Equations


U=GMm/r


The Attempt at a Solution


I calculated the total energies of the satellite in both orbits which is -1/2GMm/r
This gave -1.2458Gj for the lower orbit and -1.2315 for the higher one.
Should the difference be the total work done?

It says find the work done by all the forces acting on it.

Contemplate the possibility that this is a 'trick' question.
 
I've been thinking about this question all day... still don't get it
what would the trick be?
 
Sorry, I think I misread the question. Actually, it's a bit misty. My reading of it now is that there was a circular orbit of 7272 km which gets moved to a NEW circular orbit of 7356 km.

Just use conservation of energy but remember to include potential and kinetic energies.
 

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