Problem 6 - A Complete Resource Book in Physics for JEE Main

Question

The period of a satellite in a circular orbit around a planet is independent of, (A) the mass of the planet. (B) the radius of the planet. (C) the mass of the satellite. (D) all of three parameters \(a, b\) and \(c\).

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The answer is options B and C, the period of a satellite in a circular orbit around a planet is independent of the radius of the planet and the mass of the satellite.

Step 1: Analyze Option A

The mass of the planet diffinitely affect the period of the satellite since it has a direct impact on the gravitational pull. Hence, option A can't be the correct choice.

Step 2: Analyze Option B

The radius of the planet does not directly affect the period of the satellite. While it may have an influence on the minimal altitude at which the satellite can orbit, it does not affect the period of that orbit. So, option B could be a possible choice.

Step 3: Analyze Option C

The mass of the satellite. Gravity acts on all masses equally, so the mass of the satellite does not affect its orbital period unless it's so large that it significantly affects the planet's gravity. In normal circumstances with a small satellite, the satellite's mass will not affect its orbital period. Hence, option C is also a suitable choice.

Step 4: Analyze Option D

This involves all the options A, B and C. Due to the elements analyzed in the previous steps, we know that the mass of the planet (option A) does affect the period of the satellite. Therefore, this cannot be the correct answer.