IB Physics HL D 1 15 Hl Atmospheric Drag on Orbits Questions

Practise IB Physics HL D.1.15 by analysing atmospheric drag, orbital-energy loss, radius changes and satellite lifetime.

Exam points

Relate atmospheric drag to orbital energy loss and changing orbital radius.
Explain how reduced total energy can lower an orbit and alter orbital speed.
Analyse drag effects on satellite lifetime and re-entry using energy and momentum.

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Study D.1.15 (HL)—Atmospheric drag on orbits conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

[Maximum number: 4]

A satellite of mass m is in a circular orbit of radius r around Earth. Earth has mass M.

The satellite experiences a drag force due to the atmosphere of Earth. With reference to the results in (a) and (b)(i), state and explain the likely fate of this satellite.

The total energy is reduced OR the satellite gets closer to the surface
«From $v=\sqrt{\frac{G M}{r}}$ » the satellite moves faster
«From $\rho S v^{2}$ » the opposing force increases « because v and $\rho$ increase »
The satellite burns / crashes / falls to Earth

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IB Physics HL D 1 15 Hl Atmospheric Drag on Orbits Questions question 1