Which of these describe the speed of a moon as it draws closer to the planet it orbits?
1. The speed of the moon remains constant
2. The speed of the moon creates an elliptical pattern.
3. The speed of the moon decreases
4. The speed of the moon increases.
3. The speed of the moon decreases
The correct answer is:
3. The speed of the moon decreases.
As a moon draws closer to the planet it orbits, the gravitational force acting upon it becomes stronger. This gravitational force causes the moon to slow down, resulting in a decrease in its speed.
To determine the speed of a moon as it draws closer to the planet it orbits, we can consider the concept of orbital mechanics.
When a moon orbits a planet, it follows an elliptical path. This means that its distance from the planet is not fixed but changes throughout its orbit. As the moon moves closer to the planet, its speed can also change.
Based on this information, we can analyze each of the options:
1. The speed of the moon remains constant: This option is incorrect since the speed of the moon changes as it moves closer to the planet due to gravitational forces.
2. The speed of the moon creates an elliptical pattern: This statement is partially correct. The moon's motion does follow an elliptical path, but it's important to note that the speed of the moon changes as it moves along its elliptical orbit.
3. The speed of the moon decreases: This option is possible if the moon is in the process of moving away from the planet. However, if the moon is drawing closer to the planet, the gravitational pull will increase its speed, making this option incorrect.
4. The speed of the moon increases: This is the most accurate option. As the moon draws closer to the planet, the gravitational force between them strengthens, causing the moon's speed to increase.
In summary, the correct answer is option 4: The speed of the moon increases.