1.

23. Why does a satellite need no fuel to move round a planet in a fixed orbit?

Answer»

You require the satellite to have fuel only for putting into the orbit of the planet around which it needs to revolve. Once the satellite is sent into the atmosphere at a sufficient height above the planet (which can be calculated using classical mechanics considering the gravitational field theory of newton) it is imparted a horizontal velocity because of which it is set into a circular motion. See, this component of velocity is very much required for the satellite to undergo a circular motion as then only the gravitational force acting on the satellite acts as a centripetal force which is essential for everybody to undergo a circular motion, and once it starts revolving in a circular motion , it doesnot require any fuel as then the required fuel(centripetal force) is provided to the satellite by the gravitational force.



Discussion

No Comment Found

Related InterviewSolutions