Question

↑ 1.4.2 test (cst): computer - scored unit test
at which point does the satellite have the most gravitational potential energy?
a. point a
b. point b
c. point c
d. point d

Explanation:

Step1: Recall gravitational - potential - energy formula

The gravitational potential energy of a satellite in orbit around a planet is given by $U =-\frac{GMm}{r}$, where $G$ is the gravitational constant, $M$ is the mass of the planet, $m$ is the mass of the satellite, and $r$ is the distance between the satellite and the planet. The magnitude of $U$ increases as $r$ decreases. But we consider the absolute - value for comparing the amount of potential energy. The farther the satellite is from the planet (larger $r$), the more gravitational potential energy it has.

Step2: Identify the farthest point

In the given orbit diagram, the point that is farthest from the central body (the orange - colored object representing a planet or star) is Point A.

Answer:

A. Point A