A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very small compared to the mass of the earth. Then,the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth.
the angular momentum of S about the centre of the earth changes in direction, but its magnitude remains constant.
the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time.
the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.
Solution:
Yes, the acceleration of the satellite \( S \) is always directed towards the center of the Earth. This is because the gravitational force, which provides the acceleration, always points towards the Earth's center, regardless of the satellite's position in its elliptical orbit. This centripetal acceleration is responsible for keeping the satellite in orbit.
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