Gravitational Potential Energy: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Gravitational Potential Energy. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Kinetic energy of the satellite is $K = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$ and potential energy is $U = -mv^2$. Total energy $E = K + U = \frac{1}{2}mv^2 - mv^2 = -\frac{1}{2}mv^2$.