A satellite is in orbit around the earth.Which one feels the greater force?
A)the satellite because the earth is so much more massive
B)the earth because the satellite has so little mass
C)Earth and the satellite feel exactly the same force.
D)It depends on the distance of the satellite from Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Newton's third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Therefore, the earth and the satellite both feel the same force, but in opposite directions. The gravitational force between two objects depends on the masses of the objects and the distance between them, but in this case, the mass of the satellite is irrelevant as it is already orbiting the earth.

A Satellite Is in Orbit Around the Earth