A satellite is in a circular orbit around the Earth. What is the relationship be

Practice Questions

Q1
A satellite is in a circular orbit around the Earth. What is the relationship between the gravitational force and the centripetal force acting on the satellite? (2022)
  1. Gravitational force > Centripetal force
  2. Gravitational force < Centripetal force
  3. Gravitational force = Centripetal force
  4. No relationship

Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions

A satellite is in a circular orbit around the Earth. What is the relationship between the gravitational force and the centripetal force acting on the satellite? (2022)
  • Step 1: Understand that a satellite is an object that orbits around the Earth due to gravity.
  • Step 2: Recognize that for the satellite to stay in a circular path, it needs a force that keeps it moving in that circle. This is called centripetal force.
  • Step 3: Identify that the force that pulls the satellite towards the Earth is called gravitational force.
  • Step 4: Realize that in a stable orbit, the gravitational force acting on the satellite is what provides the necessary centripetal force to keep it moving in a circle.
  • Step 5: Conclude that for a satellite in a stable orbit, the gravitational force and the centripetal force are equal.
  • Gravitational Force vs. Centripetal Force – The gravitational force acting on the satellite is what keeps it in orbit, and this force must equal the centripetal force required to maintain that orbit.
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