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F = ma (Final Problems)
Gravitation
FMA-2008-25 · 2008 F = ma (AAPT)

2008 F = ma Exam — Question 25

25. Two satellites are launched at a distance R from a planet of negligible radius. Both satellites are launched in the tangential direction. The first satellite launches correctly at a speed v0 and enters a circular orbit. The second satellite, however, is launched at a speed 1 2v0. What is the minimum distance between the second satellite and the planet over the course of its orbit?
Source: Question 25, 2008 F = ma Exam, © 2008 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.