Question

A satellite of the earth is revolving in a circular orbit with a uniform speed $v$. If the gravitational force suddenly disappears, the satellite will

• A. Continue to move with velocity $v$ along the original orbit
• B. Move with a velocity $v$, tangentially to the original orbit
• C. Fall down with increasing velocity
• D. Ultimately come to rest somewhere on the original orbit

Answer 1

The correct option is B Move with a velocity $v$, tangentially to the original orbit

As we know that velocity of a particle in a circular orbit is tangential to the path. When gravitational force disappears, there will be no centripetal force keeping the particle in its orbit and hence will start moving tangentially with the same speed.

Therefore, option $\left(b\right)$ is correct.