Which of these describe the speed of a moon as it draws closer to the planet it orbits?

a. The speed of the moon remains constant
b. The speed of the moon increases
c. The speed of the moon decreases
d. The speed of the moon creates an elliptical pattern

1 answer

The correct answer is:

b. The speed of the moon increases

As a moon moves closer to the planet it orbits, it experiences an increase in gravitational force, which causes it to accelerate and increase its speed. This is consistent with the principles of orbital mechanics, where objects in orbit move faster when they are closer to the body they are orbiting (a phenomenon described by Kepler's laws of planetary motion).