Two satellites A and B of equal mass m 0 , moving in the same circular orbit of radius r around the earth (mass M) but in opposite sense of rotation and therefore on a collision course (see figure), then -
A
Total mechanical energy of the two satellites plus earth system before collision is 
B
Total mechanical immediately after completely inelastic collision is 
C
Subsequent motion of combined satellites mass is along straight line
D
Subsequent motion of combined satellites mass is along circular orbit of reduced radius
Text Solution
Verified by ExpertsThe correct answer is:
CHECK THE SOLUTION.
(b, c)
T.E. = 2 
= 
T.E. = – 
= – 
Velocity is zero so along straight line towards earth.
Prepare Smarter with CGP Edu
Get practice questions, solutions, and test series in one place.
Write a Review
Share your experience with this question and solution.
Commentary
Send your comment, doubt, correction, or feedback to admin.
Similar Questions
Explore conceptually related problems
Imagine a light planet revolving around a very massive star in a circular orbit of radius R with a …
A satellite S is moving in an elliptical orbit around the earth. The mass of the satellite is very …
A mass M is split into two parts, m and (M–m), which are then separated by a certain distance. What…
Suppose the gravitational force varies inversely as the power of distance. Then the time period of…
In order to make the effective acceleration due to gravity equal to zero at the equator, the angula…
A simple pendulum has a time period when on the earth’s surface and when taken to a height R abov…