When using newtons second law of motion why does a space shuttle remain in orbit?

Answer 1

His 2nd Law basically states that (in an inertial reference frame) Force equals mass times acceleration AND an object in motion in a particular direction will keep going in that direction unless a force is acted upon the object. Because the force of gravity is pulling the space shuttle toward the earth with a constant force and the space shuttle is moving with a certain TANGENTAL velocity, the shuttle stays in orbit. It basically has to do with centrifugal force outward and gravity inward being in balance.

Answer 2

The second law states that the acceleration is proportional to the force applied divided by the mass; the equivalent of F = ma.

A shuttle stays in orbit because the necessary centripetal force is supplied by gravity. The object accelerates towards the planet at the same rate it is moving away, and stays at a constant height above it.

Answer 3

A space shuttle remains in orbit because of its forward velocity and the gravitational pull of Earth. According to Newton's second law of motion, an object in motion will continue moving in a straight line unless acted on by an external force. In the case of a space shuttle in orbit, the force of gravity pulling it towards Earth is balanced by the shuttle's forward velocity, causing it to continuously fall towards Earth without actually hitting it.