Suppose that a satellite is sent into space with the intention of it orbiting the Earth at a constant orbital radius. Unfortunately, the satellite is not given enough energy and its orbit starts to suffer from frictional forces caused by the upper atmosphere.
(1) What effect will the frictional forces, caused by the satellite moving through the upper atmosphere, have on the total energy of the satellite?
(2) So, what will happen to the orbital radius of the satellite?
(3) So, what will happen to the orbital speed of the satellite?
(4) In terms of energy transfers, what is happening?
(5) What can you say about the rate at which the effects in parts b, c and d occur?
(6) Suggest the likely fate of the satellite.