A satellite moves in an elliptical orbit. Let $r_p,$ $v_p$ be perigee distance and speed and $r_a,$ $v_a$ be apogee values. Which statements are correct?
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Question

A satellite moves in an elliptical orbit. Let r_p,v_p be perigee distance and speed and r_a,v_a be apogee values. Which statements are correct?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

At apsides velocity is transverse, so angular momentum conservation gives mr_pv_p=mr_av_a. Since r_p<r_a, v_p>v_a and kinetic energy is maximum at perigee. Total mechanical energy is constant throughout the orbit.