MCQ Detailed View

A satellite moving around the Earth with uniform speed is said to have accelerated motion, even though its speed remains constant. This is because acceleration in physics is not only a change in speed but also a change in the direction of motion.

When an object moves in a circular path, its velocity vector is constantly changing direction, even if its magnitude (speed) does not change. Velocity is a vector quantity that depends on both speed and direction. A continuous change in direction means there is a continuous change in velocity, which implies the presence of acceleration.

In the case of a satellite:

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  It travels in a nearly circular orbit around Earth.

  
  


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  The gravitational force of Earth acts as a centripetal force, constantly pulling the satellite toward the center of the Earth.

  
  


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  This force causes the satellite to change direction continuously, keeping it in orbit instead of moving in a straight line.

  
  

This inward-directed acceleration is known as centripetal acceleration. It is always perpendicular to the satellite’s motion, pointing toward the center of the Earth. Although the satellite’s speed remains uniform, the constant change in direction ensures it is always accelerating.

The other options are incorrect:

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  No acceleration at all: This is wrong because acceleration occurs whenever velocity changes in magnitude or direction.

  
  


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  Uniform acceleration: This would imply a constant change in speed in a straight line, which is not the case.

  
  


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  Uneven acceleration: The acceleration of the satellite is steady in magnitude but constantly changing in direction.

  
  

Thus, the correct scientific statement is that a satellite moving around the Earth at a uniform speed has accelerated motion due to centripetal acceleration, caused by Earth’s gravitational pull. This concept is fundamental in understanding orbital mechanics and satellite dynamics in physics.