What result occurs when a satellite is in a circular orbit regarding the force of gravity?

When a satellite is in a circular orbit, the gravitational force acting on it is continually pulling the satellite toward the center of the body it is orbiting, such as a planet or moon. This gravitational force provides the necessary centripetal force that keeps the satellite moving in a circular path.

The satellite's speed remains constant; however, its direction of motion is continuously changing. This change in direction is essential for maintaining the circular orbit. If the direction did not change, the satellite would move in a straight line due to Newton's first law of motion. Thus, the gravitational force is crucial in continuously redirecting the satellite's velocity, allowing it to maintain its circular path around the celestial body.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the dynamics of orbital motion. For instance, while the gravitational force acts on the satellite, it does not increase its speed or decrease its altitude; it merely keeps the satellite in orbit by changing its direction. The gravitational force does have an effect, but it manifests not as a change in altitude or speed, but rather as a continuous change in the direction of the satellite's velocity.