- #1
erisedk
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Homework Statement
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. Choose the correct statement.
Ans:
(A) the acceleration of S is always directed towards the centre of the earth
Homework Equations
F= GMm/R2
The Attempt at a Solution
In an elliptical orbit, since the velocity changes at different points, shouldn't there be a tangential acceleration as well, which would alter the direction of the net acceleration (tangential + radial)?
I know however, that there isn't a tangential acceleration, because till date, I have never considered it in any problem. I just can't justify why it wouldn't exist. Please help?