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

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

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

Steps: 6

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.