3. Orbital Energy

Learning Outcomes
  • I can define orbital energy.
  • I can calculate kinetic, potential, and total orbital energy.
  • I can explain why bound orbits have negative total energy.
  • I can analyze energy changes between different orbits.
  • I can apply energy concepts to orbital transfers.

Key Topics:
  • Total energy of an orbiting body
  • Energy exchanges between kinetic and potential energy