Two satellites S₁ and S₂ of masses differing by a factor four move in the same orbit around Earth. Which statement is correct?
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Question

Two satellites S₁ and S₂ of masses differing by a factor four move in the same orbit around Earth. Which statement is correct?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: Orbital speed of a circular orbit is v=√(GM/r) and does not depend on satellite mass. Step 2: Since both satellites follow the same orbit radius, they have equal speeds and periods, although their energies scale with satellite mass. Final answer: B — Both satellites move with the same speed.