Question 409: Gravitation

Question

A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth. Then,

Accepted Answer

The gravitational force on the satellite will be aiming towards the centre of the earth so acceleration of the satellite will also be aiming towards the centre of the earth.

Answer

the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.

Answer

the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth.

Answer

the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant.

Answer

the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time.

Gravitation

A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth. Then,

Choose the correct answer: