csurfus1 said:Homework Statement
A satellite will crash int the Earth if its velocity:
stays constant
increases dramatically
decreases dramatically
Answer: decreases dramatically.??
The velocity required for a satellite to crash into the Earth depends on several factors, including the mass and size of the satellite, the altitude of its orbit, and the composition of the Earth's atmosphere. In general, a satellite would need to be traveling at a velocity of at least 7.8 kilometers per second (4.8 miles per second) to overcome the Earth's gravitational pull and crash into its surface.
Yes, a satellite can still crash into the Earth even if its velocity is slower than 7.8 kilometers per second. This could happen if the satellite's orbit decays over time due to atmospheric drag or if it collides with another object in space, altering its trajectory towards the Earth.
The Earth's atmosphere has a significant impact on a satellite's velocity and potential crash. As a satellite enters the Earth's atmosphere, it experiences drag, which slows it down. If the satellite's velocity is not high enough to overcome this drag, it will eventually crash into the Earth's surface.
When a satellite crashes into the Earth, it will typically break apart into smaller pieces due to the impact and the forces of gravity. These pieces may burn up in the atmosphere or crash onto the Earth's surface, potentially causing damage or injuries.
Yes, a satellite can still crash into the Earth even if it is actively controlled. Factors such as mechanical failures, human error, or unexpected events in space can cause a satellite to lose control and crash into the Earth's surface.