Question

Newton's first law of motion states that an object will remain in motion in a straight line unless compelled to change direction by an external force.

Explain why satellites launched into orbit do not continue moving in a straight line. Make a connection between satellites and planets.

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

When satellites are launched into orbit, they are able to orbit around planets due to the gravitational force of attraction between the satellite and planet (usually there is no apparent change in motion of the planet because of its relative huge size than the satellite)

This gravitational force is in a different direction than the satellite's motion, therefore it keeps it orbiting around planets and does not continue moving in a straight line.