Why Do Astronauts (And Cans of Soft Drink) Float Around

question 23

Multiple Choice

Why do astronauts (and cans of soft drink) float around in the Shuttle instead of falling?

• A) the Shuttle is so far from the Earth, gravity is negligible
• B) the Shuttle's gravity balances the Earth's, so that the net gravity is zero
• C) the Shuttle is falling around the Earth (and everything aboard is in free fall)
• D) the Shuttle has an antigravity device on board, developed by NASA
• E) the rules Newton developed for gravity only hold on Earth, not once you get into space

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Definitions:

Utility Function

A representation or model used in economics to quantify the satisfaction or happiness a consumer derives from consuming goods and services.

Income

Payment obtained, regularly, for services rendered or from capital investments.

Preferences

In economics, refers to the subjective tastes and desires of consumers that influence their choices and demands.

Demand

The desire coupled with the purchasing power for specific goods or services in a given economic marketplace.