Which describes the force on a satellite keeping it in a circular orbit around the earth?

a. electrical repulsion pulling at right angles to the path of the satellite

b. centripetal force pulling at right angles to the path of the satellite

c. centripetal force pushing in a direction parallel to the path of the satellite

d. electrical repulsion pushing in a direction parallel to the path of the satellite

Question

Geography

Kylee Dorsey

24 June, 16:57

Which describes the force on a satellite keeping it in a circular orbit around the earth?

a. electrical repulsion pulling at right angles to the path of the satellite

b. centripetal force pulling at right angles to the path of the satellite

c. centripetal force pushing in a direction parallel to the path of the satellite

d. electrical repulsion pushing in a direction parallel to the path of the satellite

+3

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Conor Hawkins · Answer 1

B. centripetal force pulling at right angles to the path of the satellite

Centripetal force is the force we feel when we spin something around, and it wants to pull away. It isn't a pushing force, which is how I know the answer is not C. And it's definitely not electrical repulsion, so A and D are incorrect as well.