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Orbits

Revise Orbits in Space Physics for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 10 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should be part of a solid GCSE revision cycle.

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Falling Around the Earth

Introduction 2

What Keeps Objects in Orbit?

Key Facts 3

Circular vs Elliptical Orbits

Diagram 4

Orbital Speed and Radius

Notes 5

Types of Artificial Satellites

Key Facts

Sample Flashcards

What is Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?

Orbit at 200-2000 km altitude with ~90 minute orbital period. Used for ISS, imaging, and Earth observation

What is a polar orbit used for?

Mapping - the satellite orbits at ~800 km altitude covering the whole Earth as the planet rotates beneath it

Sample Questions

What is a protostar?

A. A cloud of gas and dust in space
B. A star that is forming from a collapsing cloud of gas and dust
C. A star that has used up all its hydrogen
D. A star that has exploded as a supernova

1 markfoundation

Explain why a main sequence star remains stable (in equilibrium) for billions of years.

2 marksstandard

exam-style questions

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