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When a satellite has an elliptical orbit...

When a satellite has an elliptical orbit the plane of the orbit

A

Sometimes passes through the centre of earth

B

does not pass through the centre of earth

C

passes through the centre of earth

D

none of the above

Text Solution

AI Generated Solution

The correct Answer is:
To solve the question regarding the plane of the orbit of a satellite in an elliptical orbit, we can follow these steps: ### Step 1: Understand the Nature of Elliptical Orbits Elliptical orbits are defined by Kepler's First Law, which states that a planet (or satellite) moves in an elliptical path with one of the foci of the ellipse occupied by the central body (in this case, the Earth). ### Step 2: Identify the Focus of the Ellipse In an elliptical orbit, there are two foci. For a satellite orbiting Earth, one of these foci is located at the center of the Earth. The other focus does not contain any mass and is simply a point in space. ### Step 3: Determine the Plane of the Orbit The plane of the orbit is defined by the elliptical path that the satellite follows. Since the focus (where the Earth is located) lies within this plane, the entire orbit, including the focus, is contained within this plane. ### Step 4: Analyze the Options The question likely provides multiple-choice answers regarding the characteristics of the orbit. Based on our understanding: - The satellite will revolve in an elliptical path with the Earth at one of the foci. - The focus lies in the plane of the ellipse. ### Step 5: Conclusion Given the information, we can conclude that the plane of the orbit does indeed contain the focus where the Earth is located. Therefore, the correct answer would be that the plane of the orbit passes through the center of the Earth. ### Final Answer The plane of the orbit of a satellite in an elliptical orbit passes through the center of the Earth. ---
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