Why does gravitational force change the speed of a satellite in elliptical orbit?
The cause of change in the speed of a satellite in elliptical orbit due to gravitational force.
Explanation of Solution
Introduction:
A force does some work on an object when the force has a component acting in the direction towards the motion of the object. Work done on object is zero when the force acts perpendicular to the direction of motion of the object.
When the satellite travels in an elliptical orbit, there is a component of gravitational force which acts towards the motion of the satellite and hence gravitational force does some work on the satellite and that way changes the kinetic energy of the satellite. So, the speed of the satellite changes.
Conclusion:
The speed of satellite changes because the component of gravitational force acting in the direction towards motion of the satellite does some work.
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