# An artificial satellite is moved from a low orbit to a higher orbit around the Earth, whilst its orbital period remains the same. State and explain what happens to the orbital speed of the satellite.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1) — 8.1 Motion in the universe · Explain · 4 marks

> An artificial satellite orbits the Earth. Engineers decide to increase its orbital radius whilst keeping its orbital period unchanged.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The orbital speed increases
2. Orbital speed is proportional to orbital radius (for a fixed period)
3. The satellite must cover a greater distance (larger circumference) in the same time
4. Therefore a greater speed is needed to complete one full orbit in the same orbital period

## Key terms

- [orbital speed](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/orbital-speed)
- [orbital period](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/orbital-period)
- [artificial satellite](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/artificial-satellite)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/an-artificial-satellite-is-moved-from-127e9473) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.