The Earth's gravity exerts no torque on a satellite orbiting the Earth in an elliptical orbit.Compare the motion at the point nearest the Earth (perigee)to the motion at the point farthest from the Earth (apogee).At the point closest to the Earth:
A) the angular speed will be greatest although the linear speed will be the same.
B) the speed will be greatest although the angular speed will be the same.
C) the kinetic energy and angular momentum will both be greater.
D) None of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The angular momentum of a satellite in orbit is conserved, meaning it remains constant throughout the orbit. At perigee, the satellite's speed is greatest due to the conservation of angular momentum and energy, but the angular speed is not necessarily the same as at apogee. Therefore, none of the given options correctly describe the motion at perigee compared to apogee.

The Earth's Gravity Exerts No Torque on a Satellite Orbiting