| Date | May 2013 | Marks available | 1 | Reference code | 13M.1.HL.TZ1.24 |
| Level | Higher level | Paper | Paper 1 | Time zone | Time zone 1 |
| Command term | Question number | 24 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
A satellite is moved from a low orbit to a higher orbit. Which of the following accurately describes the energy of the satellite?
Markscheme
D
Examiners report
The most popular response was B, presumably since most candidates assumed it was a closed system, despite being told that the satellite ‘is moved’. A satellite cannot obtain a higher orbit without some energy input, which leaves D as the correct response. There should be no need for recourse to formulae and calculation if the candidate has secure conceptual understanding of satellite motion.
