GravitationHard
Question
A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very compared to the mass of the earth
Options
A.the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth
B.the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth change in direction, but its magnitude reains constant
C.the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time
D.the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.
Solution
Force on satellite is always towards earth, therefore, acceleration of satellite S is always directed towards centre of the earth. Net torque of this gravitational force F about centre of earth is zero. Therefore, angular momentum (both in magnitude and direction) of S centre of earth is constant throughout. Since, the force F is conservative in nature, there fore mechanical energy of satellite remains constant. Speed of S is maximum when it is nearest to the earth and minimum when it is farthest.
Create a free account to view solution
View Solution FreeMore Gravitation Questions
An astronaut, inside an earth satellite experiences weightlessness because:...Select the correct alternative : -...There is a concentric hole of radius R in a solid sphere of radius 2R. Mass of the remaining portion is M. What is the g...If the mass of the Sun were ten times smaller and the universal gravitational constant were ten time larger in magnitude...Escape velocity of a body when projected from the earth’s surface is 11.2km/sec. If it is projected at an angle of 50o...