Gravitation: JEE — Satellite Energy Sign MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

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JEE — Satellite Energy SignMediumQuestion 30758

Question

For a satellite in orbit, total mechanical energy is negative. This means:

A
The satellite is losing energy continuously
B
The satellite is in a bound state (cannot escape without external energy)
Correct
C
The satellite will crash into Earth
D
The potential energy is greater than kinetic energy in magnitude

The satellite is in a bound state (cannot escape without external energy)

Negative total energy means the satellite is gravitationally bound to Earth. To escape, it needs additional energy to make total energy ≥ 0.