Physics Rotational & Circular Motion NUMS 2022
PMDC Verified Question 67 of 95
The minimum required velocity to put a satellite into the orbit is called:
A
Terminal velocity
B
Escape velocity
C
Critical velocity
D
Average velocity
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: Critical velocity
Concept:

Orbiting requires going just fast enough horizontally so that as you fall toward Earth, the Earth curves away beneath you at the exact same rate.

Solution:

  • This precise minimum horizontal speed necessary to maintain a stable circular orbit just above Earth's atmosphere is defined in orbital mechanics as Critical velocity (also frequently called orbital velocity).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A is the max speed of a falling object in air due to drag.
  • Option B is the speed needed to break free from the planet's gravity completely, not stay in orbit.
  • Option D is a generic kinematics term.

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