India's first experimental satellite, Aryabhata, was launched in 1975 into a nearly circular orbit around Earth. After completing its life, it reentered Earth's atmosphere in 1992 and its debris fell to Earth. Which one of the following statements most appropriately explains why satellites gradually decay from orbit and fall back to Earth?

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Physics · Gravitation

Verified Solution4 OptionsUpdated: October 2026👁️1 View

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Correct answer

Atmospheric drag (viscous resistive force) slows down the satellite, causing its orbital altitude to gradually decrease.

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Answer 1

The batteries and solar cells in satellites run out.

Answer 2

Atmospheric drag (viscous resistive force) slows down the satellite, causing its orbital altitude to gradually decrease.

Answer 3

It happens because of collisions with other satellites.

Answer 4

Gravitational force inherently causes a satellite to follow an inward spiral trajectory.

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