Why do satellites stay in orbit instead of crashing to Earth?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking why satellites don't fall back to Earth despite gravity. It provides multiple choice options, implying the user needs to select the correct explanation of the physics behind a satellite's orbit.
Answer
Satellites balance velocity and Earth's gravity to stay in orbit.
Satellites stay in orbit due to a balance between their velocity (speed) and Earth's gravitational pull. The satellite's speed creates a centrifugal force that counteracts gravity, preventing it from falling back to Earth.
Answer for screen readers
Satellites stay in orbit due to a balance between their velocity (speed) and Earth's gravitational pull. The satellite's speed creates a centrifugal force that counteracts gravity, preventing it from falling back to Earth.
More Information
The higher the satellite's orbit, the slower the velocity it needs to maintain its orbit.
Tips
A common misconception is that satellites are beyond Earth's gravity. In reality, gravity is crucial for keeping them in orbit.
Sources
- Why Don't Satellites Fall Out of the Sky? | NOAA SciJinks - scijinks.gov
- Why don't satellites fall into the Earth? - satnavi.jaxa.jp
- Why Don't Satellites Fall Out of the Sky? - nesdis.noaa.gov
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