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,

• A. the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude
• B. the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth
• C. the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant
• D. the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

The gravitational force on the satellite $S$ acts towards the centre of the earth, so the acceleration of the satellite $S$ is always directed towards the centre of the earth