Planet and Satellite: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

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

Kinetic energy of a satellite is \(K = \frac{GMm}{2r}\). Here \(r_1 = R + R = 2R\) and \(r_2 = R + 7R = 8R\). The ratio \(frac{K_1}{K_2} = \frac{r_2}{r_1} = \frac{8R}{2R} = 4\).