Here's a breakdown of the forces acting on a satellite:
* Gravity: This is the primary force keeping a satellite in orbit. Earth's gravity pulls on the satellite, constantly changing its direction and keeping it from flying off into space.
* Air Resistance: Although the atmosphere is very thin at the altitudes where satellites orbit, there is still some air resistance. This force slows the satellite down over time.
* Solar Radiation Pressure: The sun's light exerts a tiny but measurable force on the satellite. This force can be significant for very large, thin, or reflective satellites.
* Electromagnetic Forces: These are usually negligible but can become important in specific situations, such as interactions with the Earth's magnetic field or the presence of charged particles.
* Thrust from Rocket Engines: If a satellite is designed to change its orbit, it might use rocket engines for brief periods of time to provide thrust.
Momentum is a measure of how much mass is in motion. It is calculated by multiplying the satellite's mass by its velocity. While momentum is an important concept for understanding satellite motion, it's not a force itself.
In summary: A satellite's motion is governed by a combination of forces, not just momentum.
