The net force exerted on the moon in an elliptical orbit is always directed towards the center of the planet, regardless of the moon's specific position.
The net force exerted on the moon in the given scenario depends on the specific positions of the moon, labeled as position A and position B. To determine the direction of the net force, we need to consider the gravitational force acting on the moon.
In an elliptical orbit, the gravitational force between the moon and the planet always acts towards the center of the planet. At position A, the moon is closer to the planet compared to position B. As a result, the gravitational force at position A is stronger than at position B.
Since the net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object, including gravitational force, the direction of the net force is always towards the center of the planet. Therefore, the net force exerted on the moon is directed towards the planet's center, regardless of whether it is at position A or position B.
Therefore, the net force exerted on the moon is always directed towards the center of the planet, regardless of its specific position in the elliptical orbit.
The figure in the question is attached with the answer.