Space
Orbits
To explain how gravity keeps planets and satellites in orbit and why orbital speed depends on the orbit.

What you will learn

Why gravity keeps planets and satellites in orbit

Why orbital motion involves changing velocity

How circular orbits can have constant speed

How orbital speed relates to orbital radius

How to describe stable orbits around a larger body
Explanation
Gravity provides the resultant force that keeps a planet or satellite in orbit. In a circular orbit, speed may stay constant while velocity changes because direction changes. For stable circular orbits around the same central body, a larger radius corresponds to a smaller orbital speed. Direction-changing and speed–radius explanations are Higher tier. Example: Explain the Moon’s orbit. Earth’s gravitational attraction continually changes the Moon’s direction of motion. Identify cause and effect.
