Why does a satellite in a circular orbit travel at a constant speed?

a)there is a force acting opposite to the direction of the motion of the satellite.
b)there is no component of force acting along the direction of motion of the satellite.
c)the gravitational force acting on the satellite is balanced by the centrifugal force acting on the satellite.
d)the net force acting on the satellite is zero.

There is no component of force acting along the direction of motion of the satellite.

Explanation:

It is given that, a satellite in a circular orbit travel at a constant speed. The acceleration of an object is equal to the rate of change of velocity. At a particular point, the acceleration of the satellite will is equal to 0. We know that force is given by :

F = m a

If a is 0, then the force acting on the satellite is zero. So, there is no component of force acting along the direction of motion of the satellite. Hence, the correct option is (b).

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