Engineers are modeling the trajectory of a satellite around Earth using Newton's law of universal gravitation. In their calculations, they mistakenly enter the satellite's mass as 1,000 kg instead of its correct mass of 100 kg. The simulation uses the force value from the universal gravitation equation to guide the satellite's thrusters and orientation. What is the most likely result of this error?
Answer
A
The small distance compensates for the error, so the orbit remains stable.
B
The trajectory is overly corrected, sending the probe into a different orbit.
C
The probe's thrust is too weak, causing it to spiral into Earth.
D
The probe remains in orbit due to inertia alone.
Explanation
Newton’s law gives gravitational force proportional to the satellite’s mass. Entering 1,000 kg instead of 100 kg makes the calculated force ten times too large, so the simulation’s guidance would overcorrect the satellite and alter its trajectory, potentially placing it in a different orbit. The distance does not compensate for the mass error.
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