An Earth satellite is orbiting at a distance from the Earth's surface equal to one Earth radius (4 000 miles).At this location,the acceleration due to gravity is what factor times the value of g at the Earth's surface?
A)There is no acceleration since the satellite is in orbit.
B)2
C)1/2
D)1/4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gravitational force decreases with the square of the distance from the center of the Earth. At one Earth radius above the surface, the distance is twice the Earth's radius, so the acceleration due to gravity is (1/2)^2 = 1/4 of g.

An Earth Satellite Is Orbiting at a Distance from the Earth's