If a satellite moves with constant speed in a perfectly circular orbit around the earth,what is the direction of the acceleration of the satellite?
A)in the forward direction
B)in the backward direction
C)outward away from the earth
D)inward toward the earth
E)The acceleration is zero because the speed is constant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of the acceleration of the satellite is inward toward the earth due to the gravitational force. Even though the speed of the satellite is constant, its direction is changing constantly because its direction of motion is always tangent to the circular path. This change in direction causes the velocity vector to change, which is what causes the acceleration vector to point inward.

If a Satellite Moves with Constant Speed in a Perfectly