Which best compares the satellites? Two satellites, X and Y, are orbiting Earth. Satellite X is 1 point 2 times 10 to the 6th power m from Earth, and Satellite Y is 1 point 9 times 10 to the 5th power m from Earth.
Answer
A
Satellite X has a greater period and a faster tangential speed than Satellite Y.
B
Satellite X has a shorter period and a slower tangential speed than Satellite Y.
C
Satellite X has a greater period and a slower tangential speed than Satellite Y.
D
Satellite X has a shorter period and a faster tangential speed than Satellite Y.
Explanation
Satellite X is farther from Earth: 1.2 × 10⁶ m is greater than 1.9 × 10⁵ m. For circular orbits, a satellite farther from Earth takes longer to complete an orbit and moves more slowly along its path. Therefore, Satellite X has a greater period and a slower tangential speed.
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