Elliptical orbit around a massive spherical planet

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the dynamics of a satellite in an elliptical orbit around a massive spherical planet. Key points include that the total potential energy (PE) plus kinetic energy (KE) at position '4' is greater than at '9', and the force on the satellite at '2' is less than at '8'. The potential energy of the satellite varies with position, confirming its dependence on distance from the planet. It is suggested that the torque exerted on the satellite may not be constant, and the satellite has its minimum speed at position '10'. Additionally, the possibility of the planet being at position 'X' in the orbit is acknowledged as true.
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Homework Statement


The path of a very small satellite S in an elliptical orbit around a massive spherical planet P is shown in the figure. The distance from 3 to 4 is the same as from 4 to 5, 9 to 10, and 10 to 11.
(Select T-True, F-False, G-Greater than, L-Less than, E-Equal to, If the first is T and the rest F, enter
TFFFFFF).

https://cats.lsa.umich.edu/msuphysicslib/Graphics/Gtype30/prob02a_ellipse2na.gif

A) The total PE + KE of S at `4' is ... that at `9'.
B) The magnitude of the force on S at `2' is ... at `8'.
C) The PE of S varies with position.
D) The torqe exerted on S is constant
E) S has its minimum speed at `10'.
F) The speed of S at position `2' is ... at `8'.
G) P could be at position X for the orbit of S shown.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



A) The total PE + KE of S at `4' is ... that at `9'. GREATER THAN
B) The magnitude of the force on S at `2' is ... at `8'. LESS THAN
C) The PE of S varies with position. TRUE, depends on R
D) The torqe exerted on S is constant NOT SURE, FALSE?
E) S has its minimum speed at `10'. LESS THAN
F) The speed of S at position `2' is ... at `8'. LESS THAN
G) P could be at position X for the orbit of S shown. TRUE
 
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I doubt too many people here go to the university of michigan. Could you upload the diagram somewhere we don't need to log into?
 
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