In order for a satellite in free fall to maintain uniform circular motion, ______________.
a) there must be a tangential acceleration
b) there must be angular acceleration
c)there must be a centripetal force
d) there must be a circumventing force
Its either a or c. Can't choose which one
To determine the correct answer, let's break down the options:
a) There must be a tangential acceleration: Tangential acceleration refers to the change in speed of an object moving in a straight line. While a satellite in free fall may experience fluctuations in its tangential velocity, it does not require a tangential acceleration to maintain uniform circular motion. Therefore, option a) is not the correct answer.
c) There must be a centripetal force: A centripetal force is required to keep an object moving in a circular path. In the case of a satellite in free fall, the force of gravity acting as a centripetal force is necessary to maintain the satellite's orbit around a planet. This force constantly pulls the satellite towards the center of the circular path and prevents it from moving in a straight line. Therefore, option c) is the correct answer.
Based on the above explanation, the correct answer to the question is c) there must be a centripetal force.