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When a satellite in a circular orbit aro...

When a satellite in a circular orbit around the earth enters the atmospheric region, it encounters small air resistance to its motion. Then

A

its kinetic energy increases.

B

its kinetic energy decreases

C

its angular momentum about the earth decreases.

D

its period of revolution around the earth increases

Text Solution

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The correct Answer is:
A, C
When the satellite approaches the earth its potential energy falls which get converted into kinetic energy.
Since there is a drag force which is external to system, the angular momentum will also decrease as the drag fore will be in opposite direction of the motion. The drag force will be slowing down the satellite in comparison to the velocity in the absence of the drag force which will decrease the period of the revolution.
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