Question

A satellite is moving around the Earth in a circular orbit with a velocity $V$. If the gravitational force of the Earth were to suddenly disappear, then the satellite would

• A. fall towards the surface of the Earth.
• B. spirally move away from the Earth.
• C. move with a velocity $V$, tangentially to its circular orbit.
• D. move radially outwards with a velocity $V$

Answer 1

The correct option is C move with a velocity $V$, tangentially to its circular orbit.

The satellite is held in orbit because of two forces : gravitational force and centrifugal force. When the gravitational force disappears, there is no force to hold it in orbit. So it moves in the direction of its velocity, which is tangential to the circular path it was following earlier.