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UPSC 2011: An artificial satellite orbiting around the Earth does not fall down. This is so because the attraction of Earth
(a)does not exist at such distance
(b)is neutralized by the attraction of the moon
(c)provides the necessary speed for its steady motion
(d)provides the necessary acceleration for its motion
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Not attemptedCorrect Answer: (d) provides the necessary acceleration for its motion
A satellite is continuously in free-fall toward Earth; Earth’s gravitational pull supplies the centripetal acceleration that bends its straight-line inertia into a closed orbit. It is the acceleration, not speed, supplied by gravity that prevents the satellite from ‘falling’ to the ground. ([gktoday.in](https://www.gktoday.in/solution-of-the-upsc-prelims-2011-general-studies-paper/))
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct answer to this UPSC 2011 Science & Technology question?▼
The correct answer is option (d): provides the necessary acceleration for its motion. Watch the detailed video explanation in our Sherlocking Prelims course on UnlockIAS.
Which year was this Space Technology & Astronomy question asked in UPSC Prelims?▼
This question was asked in UPSC CSE Prelims 2011, GS Paper 1, as Question 81. It falls under Science & Technology > Space Technology & Astronomy.
What is the difficulty level of this UPSC question?▼
This question is rated "easy". It tests basic recall and most well-prepared aspirants should answer it correctly.
How many UPSC Prelims questions have been asked from Space Technology & Astronomy?▼
UPSC has asked 69 questions from Space Technology & Astronomy (under Science & Technology) across multiple years. Visit the topic page to see the full list and year-wise trends.