If the orbits of one of the large moons were somehow deflected so that it passed within the Roche limit of Jupiter,it would be torn to pieces by tidal forces.However,there are many artificial satellites orbiting Earth within Earth's Roche limit,and these are not torn apart.Why not?
A) Earth's smaller gravity is insufficient to tear anything apart.
B) The Roche limit applies only to objects held together by gravity.
C) Earth's rotation counteracts the tidal forces.
D) The satellites are held in balance between Earth's gravity and the Moon's gravity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Roche limit only applies to objects held together by gravity, such as natural moons. Artificial satellites are not held together by gravity but are instead held together by their own structural integrity, so they are not torn apart by tidal forces within Earth's Roche limit.

If the Orbits of One of the Large Moons Were