Mechanical energy in a geosynchronous orbit refers to the total amount of energy possessed by an object that is orbiting the Earth at a fixed distance and velocity. It is a combination of kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion, and potential energy, which is the energy an object has due to its position in a gravitational field.
The amount of mechanical energy a satellite has in a geosynchronous orbit determines the shape and stability of its orbit. If the mechanical energy is too low, the satellite will fall towards Earth. If it is too high, the satellite will escape Earth's orbit. Only when the mechanical energy is just right, will the satellite maintain a stable orbit at a fixed distance and velocity.
The main factors that affect the mechanical energy of a satellite in a geosynchronous orbit are its mass and its distance from the Earth. A satellite with a higher mass will have a higher mechanical energy, while a satellite at a greater distance from the Earth will have a lower mechanical energy.
According to the law of conservation of energy, the total amount of mechanical energy in a geosynchronous orbit remains constant, as long as there are no external forces acting on the satellite. This means that the satellite's kinetic and potential energies may change, but the total amount of mechanical energy will remain the same.
Yes, the mechanical energy of a satellite in a geosynchronous orbit can be changed by external forces, such as the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies or atmospheric drag. These forces can alter the satellite's velocity and distance from the Earth, thus changing its mechanical energy and potentially affecting its orbit.