The Moon continually falls toward Earth,but doesn't get closer because
A)the distance of fall is very small.
B)its tangential velocity causes it to fall around as well as toward Earth.
C)gravitation is extremely weak at the Earth-Moon distance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Moon continuously falls towards Earth under the influence of gravity. However, it maintains a constant distance from Earth because its tangential velocity (the speed at which it moves horizontally around Earth) keeps it in orbit. The combination of its falling towards Earth and moving horizontally leads to it falling around Earth instead of towards it. This phenomenon is known as projectile motion. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

The Moon Continually Falls Toward Earth,but Doesn't Get Closer Because