Question

a satellite is currently orbiting earth. scientists want to move it to a higher orbit that is farther from earth. what will happen to the satellite’s orbital speed when it is moved to the higher orbit? (1 point) the satellite’s speed will stay exactly the same the satellite will move slower because it is farther from earth’s gravitational pull the satellite will move faster because it has more room to travel the satellite will stop moving completely

Explanation:

To determine the satellite's orbital speed change, we use the concept of gravitational force and orbital motion. The gravitational force between Earth and the satellite provides the centripetal force for its orbit. The formula for orbital speed \( v \) is \( v = \sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}} \), where \( G \) is the gravitational constant, \( M \) is Earth's mass, and \( r \) is the orbital radius. As \( r \) (orbital radius) increases (moving to a higher orbit), the orbital speed \( v \) decreases because the gravitational pull weakens with distance.

• The first option is incorrect because orbital speed depends on radius.
• The third option is incorrect as "more room to travel" is not a valid reason for speed change; speed depends on gravity and radius.
• The fourth option is incorrect because the satellite will still orbit due to gravity, not stop.
• The second option is correct: a higher orbit (larger \( r \)) means weaker gravitational pull, so the satellite moves slower.

Answer:

The satellite will move slower because it is farther from Earth's gravitational pull