Chapter 7 - Circular Motion and Gravitation - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 259: 16

As one moves away from earth, the gravitational force reduces. Astronaut and orbiting spacecraft both are experiencing some gravitational pull. But it remains in orbit because of its force created by its velocity. This is the case of apparent weight wherein the body experiences no normal force and hence experiences weightlessness.

As one moves away from earth, the gravitational force reduces. Astronaut and orbiting spacecraft both are experiencing some gravitational pull. But it remains in orbit because of its force created by its velocity. This is the case of apparent weight wherein the body experiences no normal force and hence experiences weightlessness.