most earth satellites follow an oval shaped path rather than a circular path around earth. the PE increases when the satellites moves farther from earth.according to the law of energy conversation, does a satellite have its greatest speed when it is closest to or farthest from earth.
thx
2006-12-05 10:28:25 · 2 answers · asked by kobay 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
The Potential Energy will always be the difference of the Total Energy and the Kinetic Energy ( PE + KE = E). Since the PE increases farther from Earth, it is the least when the satellite is closest. This means the kinetic energy, or speed, is greatest when the satellite is closest. This principle is most readily observed in comets, which have a very elongated orbit.
2006-12-05 10:33:36 · answer #1 · answered by Bugmän 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think when it's closest to earth. When it has potential energy, there's no kinetic energy. As it gets closer to earth, it's speed gets faster or it's kinetic energy grows and has no potential energy. It's been a year since I've been in physics. I hope I helped.
2006-12-05 18:33:04 · answer #2 · answered by I don't know 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋