In satellite orbit, where must the center of the orbit coincide?

In a satellite's orbit, the center of the orbit must coincide with the center of the Earth because the satellite is influenced primarily by Earth's gravitational field. The force of gravity acts at the center of mass of the Earth, which is approximately at its geometric center.

When a satellite is in orbit around the Earth, it moves along a path that keeps it in a state of free fall towards the Earth, creating the sensation of weightlessness. This motion is a balance between gravitational pull and the satellite's tangential velocity. Since the gravitational force decreases with distance from the center of the Earth, the orbit describes an elliptical or circular path centered around this point.

Other options do not apply to the specific scenario of a satellite orbiting Earth. The center of the satellite orbits around Earth's center, not the other way around. While the center of the solar system is relevant for planetary bodies, it does not influence the local dynamics of Earth-satellite systems. The center of gravitational pull can vary depending on the mass distribution of multiple bodies, but for a satellite around Earth, the most significant gravitational influence comes from Earth's center. Therefore, the correct answer is that the center of the orbit must coincide with the center of the Earth, reflecting the fundamental principles of orbital