Question

A satellite is revolving around the Earth in a well defined circular orbit. The gravitational force between the Earth and satellite is the centripetal force of the circular motion. What can we say about the motion of the satellite if the gravitational force becomes zero?

• A. The satellite will continue moving in its circular orbit.
• B. The satellite will move tangentially.
• C. The satellite would come at rest.
• D. The satellite will fall towards the center of the Earth.

Answer 1

The correct option is B The satellite will move tangentially.

As the gravitational force becomes zero, there would be no centripetal force causing circular motion. So, the satellite would move tangentially from its circular orbit.