Verified Solution • 2025–26 Session
moderate
Q7.6: NCERT Physics - Part 1 GRAVITATION 7.6 Solution: Choose the correct alternative: (a) If the zero of potential…
Choose the correct alternative: (a) If the zero of potential energy is at infinity, the total energy of an orbiting satellite is negative of its kinetic/potential energy. (b) The energy required to launch an orbiting satellite out of earth's gravitational influence is more/less than the energy required to project a stationary object at the same height (as the satellite) out of earth's influence.
Step-by-Step Verified Solution
**Answer:** (a) Kinetic energy (b) Less
**Step-by-Step Explanation:**
(a) Total mechanical energy of a satellite is the sum of its kinetic energy (always positive) and potential energy (may be negative). At infinity, the gravitational potential energy is zero. For a bound system, total energy is negative. Thus, total energy = negative of kinetic energy [citation:10][citation:15].
(b) For a stationary object at height , energy required = . For an orbiting satellite at the same height, total energy = , so energy required = . This is half the energy required for the stationary object. Hence, less energy is needed [citation:10][citation:15].
All Questions in this Chapter
Related Learning Resources & Exam Preparation
Chapter Practice Bank
Practice all topic-wise questions from GRAVITATION
Reference Textbook Solutions
Explore complete chapter exercises for NCERT Physics - Part 1
Competitive PYQ Question Bank
Browse year-wise authentic previous years' questions with solutions
Authentic CBT Mock Tests
Simulate official exam environment with live timer and percentile scoring