Why does an orbiting satellite's speed remain constant?

Why does an orbiting satellite's speed remain constant?

A) The satellite is programmed to remain at a constant speed.

B) The satellite will constantly change direction and speed as it orbits.

C) The gravity of the earth is a parallel force which only affects direction, and not speed.

D) The gravity of the earth is a perpendicular force which, affects direction and not speed.

Question

Cristina Nichols

Biology

20 January, 01:14

Why does an orbiting satellite's speed remain constant?

Why does an orbiting satellite's speed remain constant?

A) The satellite is programmed to remain at a constant speed.

B) The satellite will constantly change direction and speed as it orbits.

C) The gravity of the earth is a parallel force which only affects direction, and not speed.

D) The gravity of the earth is a perpendicular force which, affects direction and not speed.

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Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Trystan Salazar · Answer 1

The gravity on earth is a perpendicular force which does not affect speed. Also, once the satellite is out in space it is not longer affected by the earth's gravity and its speed remains constant.