Gravitational Potential Energy (Multiple Choice Question)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around ranking paths based on changes in gravitational potential energy for a rocket-moon system. Participants express confusion over the question's requirements and the implications of the different answer choices. The formula for gravitational potential energy is provided, emphasizing the need to consider changes between states. There's a debate on whether the correct answer is A or B, highlighting the contrasting interpretations of the energy changes in the paths. Clarification is sought regarding the reasoning behind the rankings, particularly the equivalence of paths 2, 4, and 6.
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Homework Statement



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Question:
Rank the paths according to the corresponding change in the gravitational potential energy of the rocket–moon system, greatest first.

A. 1 > 3 > 5 > 2 = 4 = 6
B. 2 = 4 = 6 > 5 > 3 > 1
C. 1 = 2 = 3 = 4 = 5 = 6
D. 1 > 2 = 4 = 6 > 3 > 5

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not understanding the question. I guess it would be A, but I'm not sure why.
 
Last edited:
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Probably "1>3" means orbit 1's energy is greater than orbit 3's energy.
 
Delphi51 said:
Probably "1>3" means orbit 1's energy is greater than orbit 3's energy.

Sorry I forgot to include the question.
 
That "changes" things! It must mean the change going from a to b. Potential energy only. Much easier. You will want to have your formula for grav potential energy handy.
 
Delphi51 said:
That "changes" things! It must mean the change going from a to b. Potential energy only. Much easier. You will want to have your formula for grav potential energy handy.

The formula is Grav potential energy= -GMm / r

I think the answer would be either A or B.
 
It seems clear to me you are misunderstanding something, but I'm not supposed to just tell you the answer. Can you explain your reasoning leading to A or B? They are rather different! A says path 1 has the highest change in PE while B says path 1 has the lowest change in PE. Both say 2, 4 and 6 have the same energy - why do you think that is true?
 

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