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AP Physics C: Mechanics 6.6.A: Orbits & Escape Velocity

Practise AP Physics C: Mechanics 6.6.A by relating orbital radius to satellite energy and speed, then using conservation laws to analyse elliptical orbits and escape.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2024
Course
AP Physics C: Mechanics

Exam points

  • Relate U = -GMm/r, K = -U/2 and E = U/2 when comparing circular satellite orbits.
  • Use energy and angular momentum conservation to compare elliptical-orbit speeds and escape velocity.

6.6.A—Describe the motions of a system consisting of two objects or systems interacting only via gravitational forces question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

A comet moves in an elliptical orbit around the Sun. Which of the following is at a maximum when the comet is at its farthest distance from the Sun?

A

Kinetic energy of the comet

B

Speed of the comet

C

Acceleration of the comet

D

Gravitational potential energy of the Sun comet system

E

Total energy of the Sun-comet system Questions 19－20

Figure for Question 6.6.A—Describe the motions of a system consisting of two objects or systems interacting only via gravitational forces question 1 — AP Physics C: Mechanics

The graph above shows velocity as a function of time for a cart moving on a straight，horizontal track．

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