Gravitational Potential Energy (Multiple Choice Question)

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a multiple-choice question regarding the ranking of paths based on the change in gravitational potential energy of a rocket-moon system. Participants are attempting to interpret the question and its implications on potential energy changes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion about the question's wording and the implications of the rankings. Some suggest that the notation indicates a comparison of energy levels, while others question the interpretation of the changes in potential energy between different paths.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the question's meaning, with some participants providing insights into the formula for gravitational potential energy. However, there is no clear consensus on the correct interpretation of the rankings, and participants are encouraged to articulate their reasoning.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the need for clarity on the change in potential energy specifically, and there is mention of the formula for gravitational potential energy, indicating that understanding this concept is crucial to addressing the question.

McAfee
Messages
96
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



V63T8.jpg


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:
Physics news on Phys.org
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?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 43 ·
2
Replies
43
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K