An artificial satellite orbiting around the Earth does not fall down. This is so because the attraction of Earth
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2011 Prelims]
(a) does not exist at such distance
(b) is neutralized by the attraction of the moon
(c) provides the necessary speed for its steady motion
(d) provides the necessary acceleration for its motion
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
- The artificial satellites orbiting the Earth remains in their orbits and do not fall down due to the attraction of the Earth (gravity) which provides the necessary centripetal acceleration.
- The velocity at which the rocket launches the satellite is pre-determined and is such that it is not too great because then the satellite will escape into space and not too less because then the satellite will fall due to the gravitational force of attraction.
- A balance between this velocity and gravity keeps the satellite in its orbit and the centripetal acceleration due to gravity enables circular motion thereby allowing the satellite to orbit around the Earth.
