SUMMARY
Increasing a satellite's altitude affects its total energy due to the interplay between kinetic energy (K.E) and potential energy (P.E). The total energy (T.E) of the system, defined as T.E = K.E + P.E, remains constant when the work done by non-conservative forces is zero. As altitude increases, potential energy becomes less negative, indicating an increase, while kinetic energy decreases. This discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding energy conservation in orbital mechanics.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of gravitational potential energy and its formula
- Familiarity with kinetic energy concepts
- Knowledge of orbital mechanics and satellite dynamics
- Basic principles of energy conservation in physics
NEXT STEPS
- Study the principles of gravitational potential energy in detail
- Explore the relationship between kinetic energy and orbital velocity
- Research the effects of non-conservative forces on satellite orbits
- Learn about energy conservation laws in closed systems
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in satellite dynamics and energy conservation principles.