A satellite in circular orbit around Earth has a total mechanical energy that is negative. What does this negative value physically indicate?
(a) The satellite's orbit is unstable and it will inevitably spiral into Earth even without external influence.
(b) The negative value indicates that the satellite's kinetic energy itself is negative.
(c) The satellite is bound to Earth and cannot escape without additional energy.
(d) The satellite is unbound and will naturally escape Earth's gravity without any extra energy.