Physics

Physics

Problem

Two identical satellites orbit Earth in separate, stable circular orbits. Satellite A has an orbital radius of 2RE2R_E, and Satellite B has an orbital radius of 3RE3R_E, where RER_E is Earth’s radius. Which statement best compares their total mechanical energies EAE_A and EBE_B? a) EBE_B is more negative than EAE_A because gravitational potential energy becomes more negative as orbital radius increases. b) EAE_A is more negative than EBE_B because total mechanical energy becomes less negative as orbital radius increases. c) Both EAE_A and EBE_B are positive because the satellites' kinetic energy is greater in magnitude than their potential energy. d) EAE_A is less negative than EBE_B because Satellite A has greater kinetic energy.

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