Why does a satellite's angular momentum remain constant in orbit?
In short: This video explains the physics of angular momentum for satellites. It clarifies how distance, mass, speed, and trajectory interact to keep a satellite's angular momentum stable, whether its orbit is circular or elliptical.
Angular momentum is not just for spinning objects; even point objects moving in a straight line possess it. The value depends on the chosen axis of rotation, the object's mass, its speed, and the angle between its velocity and the radial distance from the reference point.
For satellites, this property is conserved throughout their journey. Whether a satellite follows a circular path or an elliptical one, its angular momentum remains constant, providing a fundamental look at orbital mechanics.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Angular momentum of satellites | AP Physics | Khan Academy
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