Understanding Negative Energy in Earth-Satellite Systems

[ASG141]

the potential energy of a earth-satellite system is -U.

the kinetic energy of the satellite is K = -U/2.

the mechanical energy M = -K.


this is not true.

the satellite is in equilibrium and the ∂θ change caused is limits to zero.

the PE of the satellite cannot cause acceleration in magnitude.

 

[Meir Achuz]

the potential energy of a earth-satellite system is -U.
the kinetic energy of the satellite is K = -U/2.
the mechanical energy M = -K.
this is not true.

The last line is true.
If PE=-U, then KE=+U/2, and E=KE+PE=-U/2.