JEE MainPhysicsGravitationMCQ+4 / −1
What is the minimum energy required to launch a satellite of mass from the surface of a planet of mass and radius in a circular orbit at an altitude of ?
- A
- B
- C
- D
View written solutionFree
Correct answer: A
- Interpret the orbit altitude
The satellite is to be placed in a circular orbit at an altitude of above the planet's surface.
So, the orbital radius from the center of the planet is
- Initial energy at the planet's surface
The satellite is launched from the surface. Assuming it starts from rest, its initial total mechanical energy is only gravitational potential energy:
- Final energy in circular orbit
For a satellite in a circular orbit of radius , total energy is
Here , so
- Minimum energy required
The minimum external energy needed is the increase in total mechanical energy:
Substitute the values:
Take LCM:
Thus,
- Match with options
This corresponds to:
- A:
So the correct option is A.
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