An object is discovered near the earth with values of $2 E / m=2.12 \times 107 \mathrm{~m}^{2} / \mathrm{s}^{2}$ and $L / m=7.8 \times 10^{10} \mathrm{~m}^{2} / \mathrm{s}$. This object is in what kind of orbit around the earth?
A) Elliptical
B) Parabolic
C) Hyperbolic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The object is in a hyperbolic orbit because the specific orbital energy ($E/m$) is positive. In celestial mechanics, a positive specific orbital energy indicates a hyperbolic trajectory, meaning the object will not return to its point of origin but will instead escape the gravitational pull of the Earth.

An Object Is Discovered near the Earth with Values Of 2