Q.

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. Then,

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a

the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.

b

the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth.

c

the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant.

d

the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time.

answer is B.

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Detailed Solution

When the mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth, we consider that the orbit of the satellite to be circular.

The gravitational force on the satellite S acts towards the centre of the earth, so the acceleration of the satellite S is always directed towards the centre of the earth.

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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. Then,