A satellite remains in an orbit around the earth due to the centripetal force provided by

B. Gravitational Pull of earth on the satellite

The correct answer is:

B. Gravitational Pull of earth on the satellite

Here’s why:

• A satellite orbits Earth in a (nearly) circular path.
• To maintain a circular path, an object needs a centripetal force acting inwards, constantly “pulling” it towards the center of the circle.
• Earth’s gravity acts on the satellite, pulling it inwards.
• This inward pull from Earth’s gravity provides the necessary centripetal force that keeps the satellite in its orbit.

The other options are not responsible for a satellite’s orbit around Earth:

• A. Gravitational Pull of the sun on the satellite: The Sun’s gravity does exert a pull on the satellite, but its influence is much weaker compared to Earth’s gravity at that distance.
• C. The rocket engine attached to the satellite: Rocket engines are typically used to launch the satellite into orbit, not to maintain its orbit. Once in orbit, the engine is usually turned off.