Question

sid created a chart to summarize characteristics of satellite motion. which best describes sids error? tangential speed changes throughout a satellites orbit. centripetal force is perpendicular to the velocity of the satellite. tangential speed increases with a satellites increasing distance from earth. centripetal force can sometimes slow down a satellite in orbit.

Explanation:

• Tangential speed: In a satellite's orbit, tangential speed \(v = \sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}}\) (where \(G\) is the gravitational constant, \(M\) is the mass of the Earth, and \(r\) is the distance from the Earth's center). As \(r\) increases, \(v\) decreases. But in a circular orbit (a special case of satellite motion), tangential speed is constant. However, the main error is about centripetal force.
• Centripetal force: The centripetal force \(F = \frac{mv^{2}}{r}\) acts towards the center of the circular path (towards the Earth for a satellite). Velocity in circular motion is tangential. So, centripetal force is perpendicular (not parallel) to the velocity of the satellite.
• Centripetal acceleration: \(a=\frac{v^{2}}{r}\), it always points towards the center (Earth) as the satellite is in circular motion (changing direction).

Answer:

Centripetal force is perpendicular to the velocity of the satellite.