The kinetic energy of a satellite is 2 MJ. What is the total energy of the satellite?

Options

A. `-2 MJ`
B. `-1 MJ`
C. `-1/2 MJ`
D. `-4 MJ`

Explanation

To find the total energy of a satellite given its kinetic energy, we can use the relationship between kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) in orbital mechanics.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify Given Data**:
- Kinetic Energy (KE) of the satellite = 2 MJ (megajoules).

2. **Use the Relationship Between Kinetic Energy and Potential Energy**:
- For a satellite in a stable orbit, the potential energy (PE) is related to the kinetic energy (KE) by the formula:
\[ PE = -2 \times KE \]
- This means that the potential energy is negative and twice the kinetic energy.

3. **Calculate Potential Energy**:
- Substitute the given kinetic energy into the formula:
\[ PE = -2 \times 2 \text{ MJ} = -4 \text{ MJ} \]

4. **Calculate Total Energy**:
- The total energy (TE) of the satellite is the sum of its kinetic energy and potential energy:
\[ TE = KE + PE \]
- Substitute the values:
\[ TE = 2 \text{ MJ} + (-4 \text{ MJ}) = 2 \text{ MJ} - 4 \text{ MJ} = -2 \text{ MJ} \]

5. **Final Answer**:
- The total energy of the satellite is:
\[ TE = -2 \text{ MJ} \]