Chapter 7, Problem 8RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “The speed of satellite in an elliptical orbit”.

Answer to Problem 8RAT

The correct option for the statement “The speed of satellite in an elliptical orbit” is option (c).

Explanation of Solution

A satellite in an elliptical orbit is half the time moves away from the Earth, and loses its speed and half the time when moves toward the Earth, gains its speed.

From energy conservation, when the satellite is farthest from the Earth, its distance from Earth is maximum, so potential energy becomes maximum and kinetic energy becomes minimum. When it falls back towards Earth, its potential energy decreases and kinetic energy increases.

Kinetic energy is maximum when it is closest to Earth. It means the speed of the satellite is maximum and it is minimum when the satellite is farthest from Earth. It means speed of the satellite is minimum. Thus, the speed of the satellite is not constant, it varies with its position.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct option for the statement “The speed of satellite in an elliptical orbit” is option (c).