Question

Why does gravitational force change thespeed of a satellite in elliptical orbit?

Answer 1

Answer:

A compoent of the gravitational force is in the direction of motion of the satellite

Step-by-step explanation:

Note that:

• Gravitational force is a force of attraction between two objects(masses) in the universe. It is directly proportional to the product of the masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance beteen them. It is given by the formula:

`F=(Gm_1m_2)/(r^2)`

• An elliptical orbit is a kepler orbit whose eccentricity is less than 1. It also has a negative energy

In an elliptical orbit, there is a component of the gravitational force in the direction of motion of the satellite. This is the reason why the speed of the satellite is changed by the gravitational force.