The centripetal force through which the moon orbits the earth is equal to

A. Gravitational force of earth on moon

The centripetal force that keeps the moon in its orbit around Earth is:

A. Gravitational force of earth on moon

Here’s why:

• Centripetal force is an inward force required for any object moving in a circular path.
• The Moon’s motion around Earth is nearly circular.
• Earth’s gravity acts on the Moon, pulling it inwards. This inward pull acts as the centripetal force, constantly “changing the direction” of the Moon’s motion to keep it following a curved path around Earth.

While the Moon also exerts a gravitational force on Earth (as described by Newton’s Third Law), it’s Earth’s gravity that dominates in this scenario and provides the necessary centripetal force for the Moon’s orbit.