Advanced — Lagrange PointsHardQuestion 30776
Question
The L1 Lagrange point between Earth and Sun is significant because:
- AIt is the gravitational null point where g = 0
- BObjects there orbit the Sun with Earth's period (despite being closer to Sun)Correct
- CIt is where GPS satellites orbit
- DIt is the location of Earth's magnetic equator
Correct answer
Objects there orbit the Sun with Earth's period (despite being closer to Sun)
Explanation
At L1 (between Earth and Sun), the Sun's reduced gravity (partially cancelled by Earth's pull) allows objects to orbit the Sun with Earth's 1-year period despite being at a smaller orbital radius. SOHO and DSCOVR spacecraft orbit here.