The circular velocity of a satellite orbiting Earth is given by . In this equation,
A) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r is its radius.
B) M represents the mass of Earth, and r the radius of Earth.
C) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r the distance from Earth to the satellite.
D) M represents the mass of Earth, and r the distance from Earth to the satellite.
E) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r the distance from Earth's surface to the satellite.

Question

The circular velocity of a satellite orbiting Earth is given by  . In this equation,
A) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r is its radius. 
B) M represents the mass of Earth, and r the radius of Earth. 
C) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r the distance from Earth to the satellite. 
D) M represents the mass of Earth, and r the distance from Earth to the satellite. 
E) M represents the mass of the satellite, and r the distance from Earth's surface to the satellite.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The circular velocity of a satellite orbiting Earth is given by v = [(G*M)/r]^1/2, where G is the gravitational constant, M represents the mass of Earth, and r is the distance from Earth to the satellite. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

The Circular Velocity of a Satellite Orbiting Earth Is Given