arrow
arrow
arrow
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.

Free Tests

Free
Must Attempt

SSC GD PYP (Held on 4 Feb 2025 S1)

languageIcon English
  • pdpQsnIcon80 Questions
  • pdpsheetsIcon160 Marks
  • timerIcon60 Mins
languageIcon English
Free
Must Attempt

Hindi Section Test 1

languageIcon English
  • pdpQsnIcon20 Questions
  • pdpsheetsIcon40 Marks
  • timerIcon12 Mins
languageIcon English
Free
Must Attempt

SSC GD Constable Full Mock Test 1

languageIcon English
  • pdpQsnIcon80 Questions
  • pdpsheetsIcon160 Marks
  • timerIcon60 Mins
languageIcon English
test-prime-package

Access ‘SSC CGL Tier I’ Mock Tests with

  • 60000+ Mocks and Previous Year Papers
  • Unlimited Re-Attempts
  • Personalised Report Card
  • 500% Refund on Final Selection
  • Largest Community
students-icon
354k+ students have already unlocked exclusive benefits with Test Prime!
Our Plans
Monthsup-arrow