A satellite coasting at constant speed in a circular orbit
A)is beyond the pull of Earth's gravity
B)is nevertheless accelerating.
C)undergoes changes in its potential energy.
D)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The satellite is constantly changing direction as it moves in a circular orbit, which means it is experiencing centripetal acceleration. Since acceleration is a change in velocity, and velocity includes both speed and direction, the satellite must be accelerating even if its speed is constant. The satellite is not beyond the pull of Earth's gravity, which is what keeps it in orbit, but it is experiencing a constant gravitational force towards the center of the Earth. The potential energy of the satellite does not change as it orbits, since it is at a constant distance from the Earth's center.

A Satellite Coasting at Constant Speed in a Circular Orbit