What is the effect of atmospheric drag on satellites in low Earth orbit?

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Question: What is the effect of atmospheric drag on satellites in low Earth orbit?

Options:

Correct Answer: It decreases their speed.

Solution:

Atmospheric drag decreases the speed of satellites in low Earth orbit, leading to a gradual decrease in altitude.

What is the effect of atmospheric drag on satellites in low Earth orbit?

What is the effect of atmospheric drag on satellites in low Earth orbit?

Step 1: Understand that satellites in low Earth orbit are located close to the Earth, where the atmosphere is still present.
Step 2: Recognize that the atmosphere has air particles that can create resistance against moving objects, including satellites.
Step 3: Realize that this resistance is called atmospheric drag, which acts like a force pulling the satellite backward.
Step 4: Know that as the satellite moves through the atmosphere, atmospheric drag slows it down, reducing its speed.
Step 5: Understand that when the satellite's speed decreases, it cannot maintain its altitude and starts to fall lower towards the Earth.
Step 6: Conclude that over time, this process leads to a gradual decrease in the satellite's altitude until it may eventually re-enter the atmosphere.

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