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,

Updated On: Jun 14, 2022
  • the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude
  • the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth
  • the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant
  • the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Force on satellite is always towards earth, therefore, acceleration of satellite S is always directed towards centre of the earth. Net torque of this gravitational force F about centre of earth is zero. Therefore, angular momentum (both in magnitude and direction ) of S' about centre of earth is constant throughout. Since, the force F is conservative in nature, therefore mechanical energy of satellite remains constant. Speed of S is maximum when it is nearest to earth and minimum when it is farthest.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top Questions on Gravitation

View More Questions

Questions Asked in JEE Advanced exam

View More Questions

Concepts Used:

Gravitation

In mechanics, the universal force of attraction acting between all matter is known as Gravity, also called gravitation, . It is the weakest known force in nature.

Newton’s Law of Gravitation

According to Newton’s law of gravitation, “Every particle in the universe attracts every other particle with a force whose magnitude is,

  • F ∝ (M1M2) . . . . (1)
  • (F ∝ 1/r2) . . . . (2)

On combining equations (1) and (2) we get,

F ∝ M1M2/r2

F = G × [M1M2]/r2 . . . . (7)

Or, f(r) = GM1M2/r2

The dimension formula of G is [M-1L3T-2].