What is the motion of a satellite in orbit around the Earth?

The motion of a satellite in orbit around the Earth is defined by the principles of gravitational attraction and centripetal force. In this context, the correct description of this motion is that it moves in an elliptical path. Satellites are generally in circular or elliptical orbits due to the gravitational pull of the Earth acting on them.

While it is true that satellites can maintain a constant speed in their orbits, this speed is not uniform for all satellites, especially those in elliptical orbits. A satellite travels faster when it is closer to the Earth and slower when it is farther away, adhering to Kepler's laws of planetary motion. Therefore, while there are instances where a satellite may maintain a constant speed in a circular orbit, the most accurate description of a satellite's motion in orbit is that it follows an elliptical path influenced by gravity.

Understanding the precise nature of this motion—whether elliptical or circular—is crucial in fields such as astrophysics and satellite technology, as it impacts everything from satellite positioning to communications.