Question

a satellite is coasting through deep space at a constant velocity of 7,000 m/s in a straight line, far from any significant gravitational influence. which of newtons laws best explains why the satellite maintains its constant velocity without its engines firing?

Explanation:

Newton's First Law of Motion (Law of Inertia) states that an object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will remain in motion with a constant velocity (in a straight line) unless acted upon by an external force. In this case, the satellite is in deep space far from significant gravitational influence (external forces), so it continues to move with a constant velocity as per this law.

Answer:

Newton's First Law of Motion.