Question
Physics Question on Gravitation
If suddenly the gravitational force of attraction between earth and a satellite revolving around it becomes zero, then the satellite will:
A
continue to move in its orbit with same velocity
B
move tangentially to the original orbit with the same velocity
C
become stationary in its orbit
D
move towards the earth
Answer
become stationary in its orbit
Explanation
Solution
When gravitational force becomes zero, then centripetal force on satellite becomes zero and therefore, the satellite will become stationary in its orbit.