Consider a satellite going round the earth in a circular orbit. Which ...
Speed can be constant but velocity may not be and thus acceleration
force of gravity pulls the satellite towards earth
and a centripetal force produces an acceleration to keep the satellite in their orbits
hence option c)
Consider a satellite going round the earth in a circular orbit. Which ...
Explanation:
A satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth is subject to several forces and experiences various physical phenomena. Let's analyze each statement and determine whether it is true or false:
a) It is a freely falling body:
This statement is true. A satellite in a circular orbit is constantly falling towards the Earth due to the force of gravity. However, its forward velocity keeps it in a stable orbit, creating a balance between the gravitational force pulling it inward and the centrifugal force pushing it outward.
b) It is moving with constant speed:
This statement is true. In a circular orbit, the satellite moves with a constant speed. This speed is determined by the gravitational force of the Earth, the mass of the satellite, and the radius of the orbit. As long as no external forces act on the satellite, its speed will remain constant.
c) It suffers no acceleration:
This statement is false. Although the speed of the satellite remains constant, it is constantly changing its direction. Acceleration is defined as any change in velocity, including changes in direction. In a circular orbit, the satellite is constantly changing its direction due to the gravitational force. Therefore, it experiences acceleration towards the center of the Earth.
d) Its angular momentum remains constant:
This statement is true. Angular momentum is a property of rotating or orbiting objects and is defined as the product of the moment of inertia and the angular velocity. In a circular orbit, the distance between the satellite and the Earth remains constant, and so does the satellite's angular velocity. Therefore, its angular momentum remains constant.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'c' - a satellite in a circular orbit around the Earth does experience acceleration towards the center of the Earth.
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