Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 10 - Reading Check Questions (Comprehension) - Page 201: 13

Answer

There is no component of gravitational force acting along the satellite’s direction of motion. In a circular orbit, the satellite's velocity is always directed tangentially to its orbit, and the gravitational force on it is directed radially. Gravity does no work on the satellite, and therefore does not change its kinetic energy or its speed.
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