Gravitational potential energy of satellite

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the gravitational potential energy of a satellite fragment after it is ejected from orbit. The work done by gravity on the 73-kg fragment is determined to be 8.52×10^7 J. Participants are trying to find the work converted into heat using the equation Ug + W = Kf. To find Kf, the final kinetic energy, the final speed of 355 m/s and the mass of the fragment are used. The conversation highlights the need to clarify how to properly apply the equations to solve for the unknowns.
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Homework Statement


A satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth with a radius 1.019 times the mean radius of the Earth is hit by an incoming meteorite. A large 73-kg fragment is ejected in the backwards direction so that it is stationary with respect to the Earth and falls directly to the ground. Its speed just before it hits the ground is 355 m/s. Find the total work done by gravity on the satellite fragment. Assume that Rearth = 6.37 × 103 km and Mearth = 5.98 × 1024 kg.

Wg=8.52×107 J

Calculate the amount of work that is converted into heat.

W=?


Homework Equations



Ug+W=Kf

The Attempt at a Solution



I solved for the work done by gravity, but I am stuck on the work converted into heat. My teacher told me to use the equation above but I am not sure how to use it, W=KF-8.52×107 J ? If that's the case, what do i use to solve for KF?
 
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You have the final speed and the mass. So the final kinetic energy is ____?
 

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