Taking the zero of potential energy to be at the infinite separation of two masses, consider the energy of a body in circular planetary motion. Which of the following statements is valid?
A) The total mechanical energy of the system is constant and negative.
B) The total mechanical energy of the system is constant and positive.
C) The potential energy of the system is equal to the kinetic energy but opposite in sign.
D) The potential energy of the system decreases as the radius of the orbit increases.
E) The potential energy does not depend on the distance between the masses.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In circular planetary motion, the total mechanical energy (sum of kinetic and potential energy) is constant and negative, as the potential energy is negative and larger in magnitude than the kinetic energy.

Taking the Zero of Potential Energy to Be at the Infinite