devarshi-dt-logo

Question:

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.

the total mechanical energy of S varies periodically with time.

the linear momentum of S remains constant in magnitude.

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.

Solution:

acceleration is due to the gravitational attraction. Since gravitational force is towards the center of earth, acceleration will be towards center of earth.