Warning: foreach() argument must be of type array|object, bool given in /var/www/html/web/app/themes/studypress-core-theme/template-parts/header/mobile-offcanvas.php on line 20

Two friends are having a conversation. Anna says a satellite in orbit is in freefall because the satellite keeps falling toward Earth. Tom says a satellite in orbit is not in freefall because the acceleration due to gravity is not 9.80 m/s2. Who do you agree with and why?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Anna is correct; the satellite is in free fall, and the centripetal force balances its gravitational force.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Satellite

A satellite is an item that is placed into orbit on purpose.

02

Determining the right person

Anna is correct; the satellite is in free fall, and the centripetal force balances its gravitational force.

Because of the principle of laughing a satellite, when a body is projected from the top of the tower with some horizontal speed, the body will describe a parabolic path under the effect of gravity and hit the surface of the earth. If we go on increasing the initial horizontal speed of projection of the body, its range will also increase, and finally, a stage comes when the body will not hit the earth. However, remain in a state of free fall under gravity at all times. Then body describes a circular path and becomes a satellite of the earth. At this stage, the gravitational force of the body will be balanced by centripetal force.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free