- #1
ND3G
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Calculate the total energy of a geosynchronous satellite (one that orbits over a fixed spot) with a mass of 1500kg, orbiting Earth at a height of 325km with an orbital speed of 5000m/s
This question is starting to drive me a little mad. First of all, the satellite can't be in a geosynchronous orbit AND traveling at 5000m/s 325km above the earth. The two just don't jive.
Secondly, I am completely at a loss as to what formulas I should be using.
Should I simply be using 1/2mv^2 + mgh (where g = equals the reduced gravity of 8.8756069 at that height) for the question or is it much more involved than that?
I've read over articles involving critical velocities, gravitational attraction, circular motion, and centrifugal force until my head is spinning.
Can some please please give me a nudge in the right direction?
Thanks
This question is starting to drive me a little mad. First of all, the satellite can't be in a geosynchronous orbit AND traveling at 5000m/s 325km above the earth. The two just don't jive.
Secondly, I am completely at a loss as to what formulas I should be using.
Should I simply be using 1/2mv^2 + mgh (where g = equals the reduced gravity of 8.8756069 at that height) for the question or is it much more involved than that?
I've read over articles involving critical velocities, gravitational attraction, circular motion, and centrifugal force until my head is spinning.
Can some please please give me a nudge in the right direction?
Thanks