Question

A satellite of mass $M$ is in a circular orbit of radius $R$ about the centre of the earth. A meteorite of the same mass, falling towards the earth, collides with the satellite completely inelastically. The speeds of the satellite and the meteorite are the same, just before the collision. The subsequent motion of the combined body will be :

• A. in a circular orbit of a different radius
• B. in the same circular orbit of radius R
• C. in an elliptical orbit
• D. such that it escapes to infinity

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

in an elliptical orbit

Answer 2

If $V < V_{o}$, then satellite does not remain in it's circular path rather it traces a spiral path and falls on earth
$V=V_{e}$
satellite move along parabolic path
- wherein
$V=V_{o}$
Satellite revolves in circular path
$V>V_{e}$
Satellite will move along a hyperbolic path
Apply momentum conservation