How fast must a satellite leave Earth's surface

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To reach an orbit at an altitude of 895 km, a satellite must achieve a velocity of approximately 7404.5 m/s, calculated using the formula v = √(GM/r). However, this speed is necessary for maintaining orbit, not for escaping Earth's gravitational field. To determine the escape velocity, the formula v = √(2GM/r) should be used, which accounts for the energy needed to overcome gravity. The discussion highlights the importance of conservation of energy principles in calculating the velocities needed for both escape and orbital insertion. Understanding these concepts is crucial for accurately determining the required speeds for satellite launches.
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Homework Statement



How fast must a satellite leave Earth's surface to reach an orbit with an altitude of 895 km?

Homework Equations



v = √GM/r

The Attempt at a Solution



G = 6.67 x 10^-11
M = 5.98 x 10^24
r = (6.38 x 10^6) + (8.95 x 10^5) = 7.275 x 10^6

v = √(6.67 x 10^-11)(5.98 x 10^24)/(7.275 x 10^6)
v = 7404.5 m/s

But this is the speed the satellite needs to stay in orbit. Is this the same speed that it needs to leave the Earth's surface? Do I need to use v = √2GM/r instead to find the velocity it needs to escape the gravitational field at Earth's surface and go into orbit?
 
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To the velocity required to orbit at that height, you need to add the velocity necessary so that the kinetic energy can be 'traded off' for the change in potential energy to get to that height.
 
Would that be

Ek = ΔEg
1/2mv^2 = -GMm/r2 - (-GMm/r1)

solve for v, then add it to 7404.5 m/s?
 
Ohhh wait, conservation of energy applies, right?

Ek1 + Eg1 = Ek2 + Eg2

just plug v2 = 7404.5 m/s in
 
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