planet x has a moon similar to earth’s moon. which path would this moon’s orbit take? if for some reason…

planet x has a moon similar to earth’s moon. which path would this moon’s orbit take? if for some reason, the planet is destroyed and no longer exists, which path would the moon take?

planet x has a moon similar to earth’s moon. which path would this moon’s orbit take? if for some reason, the planet is destroyed and no longer exists, which path would the moon take?

Answer

Explanation:

Step1: Understand orbital motion

The moon orbits the planet due to gravitational - force. In normal conditions, it follows a curved path around the planet. Path 3 represents an orbital path around Planet X.

Step2: Consider Newton's first law

When the planet is destroyed and no longer exerts gravitational force on the moon, the moon will move in a straight - line path (inertia). Path 2 represents a straight - line motion.

Answer:

First blank: 3 Second blank: 2