Question

*When an artificial satellite orbits the earth, the gravitational force on the satellite and the displacement of the satellite are in the ___________ direction, so the work done by the gravitational force is zero.*

1️⃣ perpendicular
2️⃣ parallel
3️⃣ in straight line
4️⃣ opposite​

Answer 1

Answer:

Perpendicular

Explanation:

As the displacement of the satellite is always along the tangent to the circular orbit and the gravitational force acts towards the centre of the circular path. Hence the displacement is perpendicular to the gravitational force and thus the work done by gravitational force in moving the satellite is zero.