Why does the speed of a satellite undergo change in an elliptical orbit?
The reason for the change in the speed of a satellite along an elliptical path.
Answer to Problem 17RQ
The speed of the satellite undergoes a change in the elliptical orbit due to the variation in the distance between the planet and satellite.
Explanation of Solution
The orbital speed of the planet depends on the mass of the planet and radius of the orbit. The mass of the planet does not change for the satellite. The radius of the orbit is the distance between the planet and satellite. The radius of the orbit remains constant for a circular path but vary for the elliptical path.
As the distance between the planet and satellite continuously changes, so the speed of the satellite also changes. The speed of the planet becomes highest at least distance and become least at the highest distance from the planet.
Conclusion:
Therefore, the speed of the satellite undergoes a change in the elliptical orbit due to the variation in the distance between the planet and satellite.
Chapter 7 Solutions
Conceptual Physical Science Explorations
Additional Science Textbook Solutions
Introduction to Electrodynamics
Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics
The Cosmic Perspective
College Physics (10th Edition)
University Physics (14th Edition)
Conceptual Integrated Science
- College PhysicsPhysicsISBN:9781305952300Author:Raymond A. Serway, Chris VuillePublisher:Cengage LearningUniversity Physics (14th Edition)PhysicsISBN:9780133969290Author:Hugh D. Young, Roger A. FreedmanPublisher:PEARSONIntroduction To Quantum MechanicsPhysicsISBN:9781107189638Author:Griffiths, David J., Schroeter, Darrell F.Publisher:Cambridge University Press
- Physics for Scientists and EngineersPhysicsISBN:9781337553278Author:Raymond A. Serway, John W. JewettPublisher:Cengage LearningLecture- Tutorials for Introductory AstronomyPhysicsISBN:9780321820464Author:Edward E. Prather, Tim P. Slater, Jeff P. Adams, Gina BrissendenPublisher:Addison-WesleyCollege Physics: A Strategic Approach (4th Editio...PhysicsISBN:9780134609034Author:Randall D. Knight (Professor Emeritus), Brian Jones, Stuart FieldPublisher:PEARSON