IB Physics HL D.1.6 Gravitational Potential Energy Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL D.1.6 by solving gravitational-potential-energy changes for satellites, orbital transfers and escape-speed systems.

[Maximum number: 2]

This question is in two parts. Part 1 is about the use of renewable energy sources. Part 2 is about the gravitational potential of the Earth.

A satellite of mass 780 kg is put into circular orbit $4.0 \times 10^{3} \mathrm{~km}$ above the surface of the Earth. It is then moved to a higher orbit $3.2 \times 10^{4} \mathrm{~km}$ above the surface.

Calculate, for the satellite as it is moved from the lower orbit to the higher orbit, the change in

the gravitational potential energy.

change in gravitational potential $=(+) 28\left(\mathrm{MJ} \mathrm{kg}^{-1}\right)$ ;
change in gravitational potential energy $=\left(28 \times 10^{6} \times 780=\right) 2.2 \times 10^{10}(\mathrm{~J})$ ;

Marking guidance:

Award [2] for a bald correct answer.

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D.1.6 (HL)—Gravitational potential energy question 1