The foci of the elliptical path for an Earth satellite are __________.
A) one at Earth's center and the other elsewhere
B) one atop the other at Earth's center
C) both inside Earth
D) both outside Earth
A) one at Earth's center and the other elsewhere
The correct answer is:
A) one at Earth's center and the other elsewhere
To determine the foci of an elliptical path for an Earth satellite, we can rely on the properties of ellipses and the motion of satellites. Let's break down the process:
First, we need to understand that an ellipse is a type of curved shape that is defined by its two foci. The foci are the points inside the ellipse that have a special relationship to every point on the ellipse.
For Earth satellites, we know that they orbit around the Earth due to the force of gravity. In this case, the Earth acts as the center point of the ellipse.
Now let's consider the options:
A) One at Earth's center and the other elsewhere: This option is incorrect because the foci do not exist randomly or elsewhere, but have a specific relationship to the Earth's center.
B) One atop the other at Earth's center: This option is incorrect because having the foci on top of each other at Earth's center would result in a perfect circle, not an ellipse.
C) Both inside Earth: This option is incorrect because having both foci inside the Earth would mean that the elliptical path would intersect with and go through the Earth, which is not possible.
D) Both outside Earth: This option is correct. The foci of an elliptical path for an Earth satellite are both located outside the Earth. One focus will be inside the Earth's atmosphere, and the other focus will be further away from the Earth.
In conclusion, for an Earth satellite's elliptical path, the foci are both located outside the Earth.