Why Does Increasing a Satellite's Altitude Affect Its Total Energy?

[nishanth R]

Homework Statement

If height of a satellite from the surface of Earth is increased, why does the total energy increase?

Homework Equations

T.E=K.E + P.E

The Attempt at a Solution

Here the work done by non-conservative forces is zero. This means that the total mechanical energy of the system will remain constant. So if we increase the height,, potential energy will become less negative that is it will increase. K.E will decrease. However total energy would be constant

 

[gneill]

Here the work done by non-conservative forces is zero. This means that the total mechanical energy of the system will remain constant.

I don't follow the logic. Why are you assuming that there is no work done by non-conservative forces?

If the work done by non-conservative forces is zero, how did the satellite change orbits? Do orbiting objects spontaneously change their orbits with no external energy input? Why is the Moon still here?