If a satellite's radial velocity is zero at all times, its orbit must be
A) circular.
B) parabolic.
C) elliptical.
D) geosynchronous.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A satellite with a radial velocity of zero at all times is maintaining a constant distance from the center of the body it is orbiting, which means it is in a circular orbit. Radial velocity refers to the component of the velocity of an object directed along the line of sight towards or away from the observer; in the context of orbital mechanics, it's the component of the satellite's velocity that would change its distance from the planet. If this is always zero, the satellite's distance from the planet does not change, indicating a circular orbit.

If a Satellite's Radial Velocity Is Zero at All Times