artificial satellites
What artificial satellites means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of artificial satellites
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain artificial satellites in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Objects launched by people that orbit the Earth or another planet, are held in orbit by gravity and are usually small, low and fast.
Satellites that we launched, such as the International Space Station or a weather satellite, and they orbit the Earth.
Topics that use artificial satellites
- Orbital motion, natural and artificial satellites (AQA GCSE)
- Our solar system (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- constant speed with changing velocity
- dwarf planets
- Equilibrium
- Gravitational collapse
- gravitational force
- gravity acting towards the centre
- nuclear fusion
- orbiting the Sun
Using artificial satellites in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge