A satellite is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Fields and their consequences · Fields and their consequences
Problem
A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth.
(1) The acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth.
(2) The angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant.
(3) The total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time.
(4) The linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.