Q. The radii of circular orbits of two satellites A and B of the earth, are 4R and R, respectively. If the speed of satellite A is 3V, then the speed of satellite B will be
A) 3V/2
B) 3V/4
C) 6V
D) 12V
Explanation
[Solution from source] Orbital speed v = √(GM/r), so v ∝ 1/√r. v_B/v_A = √(4R/R) = 2, so v_B = 2 × 3V = 6V. Using v ∝ 1/r would give 12V. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.