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A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth.A. The acceleration of `S` is always directed towards the centre of the earth.B. The angular momentum of `S` about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant.C. The total mechanical energy of `S` varies periodically with time.D. The linear momentum of `S` remains constant in magnitude. |
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Answer» Correct Answer - A::C Force on the satellite is always towards the earth, therefore, acceleration of satellite `S` is always directed towards the centre of the earth. Net torque of this gravitational force `F` about the centre of the earth is zero. Therefore, angular momentum (both in magnitude and direction) fo `S` about the centre of the earth is constant throughout. Since force `F` is conservative in nature, therefore mechanical energy of the satellite remain constant. Speed of `S` is maximum when it is nearest to the earth and minimum when it is farthest. |
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