GravitationEasy
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.
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