Question

If suddenly the gravitational force of attraction between earth and a satellite revolving around it becomes zero, then the satellite will

• A. continue to move in its orbit with same velocity
• B. move tangentially to the original orbit with the same velocity
• C. become stationary in its orbit
• D. move towards the earth

Answer 1

The correct option is B move tangentially to the original orbit with the same velocity

When the gravitational force becomes zero, the centripetal force cannot be provided. So the satellite will move with the same velocity at the instant when the gravitational force ceases & hence moves tangentially to the original orbit.