Satellite motion fundamentals: Which of the following statements about gravity and satellite launch/flight is correct in the context of basic orbital mechanics and gravitational intensity with height?

Introduction / Context:

This conceptual question checks your understanding of how gravitational acceleration varies with altitude and what that implies for satellites. In orbital mechanics, satellites remain in free-fall around Earth; the magnitude of gravitational acceleration g decreases with altitude according to an inverse-square law. Recognizing correct physical statements and filtering out incorrect units or exaggerations is essential for basic space engineering literacy.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are discussing Earth's gravitational field and satellites at altitudes above the surface.
• Standard physics: g decreases with distance from Earth's center following g = GM / r^2.
• No drag or thrust is considered in the simple statements.

Concept / Approach:

Gravitational intensity is not constant; it decreases with height. Therefore, any statement that says "g declines with height" is correct. By contrast, citing a fixed decrease in satellite speed of "32 km per second" is dimensionally and physically incorrect, because 32 km/s is an enormous speed (orbital speeds are typically around 7–11 km/s). We must identify the single precise statement consistent with physics.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

At low Earth orbit (a few hundred kilometres), g is still close to 9.8 m/s^2 but measurably lower; weightlessness is due to free-fall, not zero gravity. This verifies the direction of change stated in the correct option.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “Nature plays an important role …” is vague and not a technical statement.
• “Earth's gravity reduces speed by 32 km/s” is nonsensical in units and magnitude.
• “Gravitational force relents as the satellite climbs higher” is informal wording; the precise and correct technical statement is that g declines with height.
• “All the above” fails due to incorrect items included.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing weightlessness with zero gravity; g remains significant in orbit.
• Accepting statements with incorrect units or unrealistic magnitudes.

Final Answer:

The gravitational intensity (value of g) declines with increasing height above the Earth