For a satellite moving in an orbit around the earth, the ratio of kinetic energy to potential energy is

The relationship between a satellite’s kinetic energy and potential energy is one that is unique for a stabilized Earth orbit. The motion of the satellite is controlled by gravitation, which gives the centripetal force to keep it curved along the path around the earth.

In this system, the satellite contains two types of energy: one is kinetic due to its motion and the other is potential because of the Earth’s gravitational pull. A prominent result of orbital mechanics is that the kinetic energy of the satellite is always equal in magnitude to half of its potential energy but has opposite signs. This means that the ratio of kinetic energy to potential energy is always 1/2.

This bond ensures the satellite remains in orbit. The total energy of the system is negative, since it is the sum of the kinetic and potential energy, representing the bound state of the satellite. This concept is applicable for circular or elliptical orbits and plays a critical role in explaining the dynamics of satellites. In fact, this explains why the satellites remain stable in their orbits and do not drift away or spiral inward. The balance of these forms of energy is preserved.

Click here for more: – https://www.tiwariacademy.com/ncert-solutions/class-11/physics/chapter-6/