A satellite is moving in a circular orbit at a constant speed due to gravity. Which of the following statements is correct about the above figure?
Correct answer: A. The Earth does zero work on satellite
- A. The Earth does zero work on satellite
- B. The Earth does positive work on satellite
- C. The Earth does negative work on satellite
- D. The concept of work is not applicable in circular motion.
Explanation
In the scenario of a satellite moving in a circular orbit at constant speed, the gravitational force exerted by the earth is always perpendicular to the satellite's velocity. Work is defined as the dot product of force and displacement, and the dot product of perpendicular vectors is zero, resulting in zero work done by the earth on the satellite.
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About Work
Work is done when a force produces displacement, with its value determined by the component of force along the displacement. The topic covers positive, negative and zero work, work by variable forces from force-displacement graphs, and the connection between net work and change in kinetic energy.
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