SatellitesHardQuestion 6262
Question
A satellite is in orbit at r. To make it spiral inward (reduce orbit), we should:
- AIncrease its speed
- BDecrease its speedCorrect
- CApply force perpendicular to orbit
- DIncrease mass
Correct answer
Decrease its speed
Explanation
Decreasing speed reduces kinetic energy — satellite falls to lower orbit. Decrease its speed.