An orbiting satellite experiences no forces other than the force of gravity. It therefore exhibits simple projectile motion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An orbiting satellite is indeed primarily influenced by the force of gravity, but its motion is not considered simple projectile motion. Simple projectile motion occurs under the influence of gravity in a uniform, two-dimensional plane close to the Earth's surface, where the only force acting after the initial launch is gravity, assuming air resistance is negligible. In contrast, an orbiting satellite follows a curved path around the Earth due to the constant gravitational pull, which keeps changing its direction without changing its speed, resulting in circular or elliptical orbits, not the parabolic trajectory seen in simple projectile motion.

An Orbiting Satellite Experiences No Forces Other Than the Force