A satellite in an elliptical orbit about a planet travels much faster when it is directly over a
A)large ocean.
B)large island.
C)high mountain range.
D)great plain or plateau.
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The speed of a satellite in an elliptical orbit around a planet varies due to its distance from the planet, not the surface features over which it orbits. According to Kepler's laws, a satellite moves faster when it is closer to the planet (periapsis) and slower when it is farther away (apoapsis), regardless of what is directly below it.

A Satellite in an Elliptical Orbit About a Planet Travels