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    What specific physical quantity ensures a satellite maintains its orbit without continuous propulsion?
    Question

    What specific physical quantity ensures a satellite maintains its orbit without continuous propulsion?

    A.

    Mass

    B.

    Gravitational pull

    C.

    Orbital velocity

    D.

    Atmospheric drag

    Correct option is C

    The correct answer is (c) Orbital velocity.
    • A satellite remains in orbit when its forward (tangential) velocity balances gravity.
    • Proper orbital velocity ensures continuous free-fall around Earth.
    • No continuous propulsion is required once stable orbit is achieved.
    Information Booster:
    • Low Earth Orbit requires ~ 7.8 km/s orbital speed.
    • Gravity provides the centripetal force.
    • Different orbits require different velocities.
    Additional Knowledge:
    • Atmospheric drag slows satellites in low orbits.
    • Mass does not determine orbital stability directly.
    • Gravity alone would cause the satellite to fall without sufficient velocity.

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