Geosynchronous satellites orbit the Earth at a distance of 42 000 km from the Earth's center.Their angular speed at this height is the same as the rotation rate of the Earth,so they appear stationary at certain locations in the sky.What is the force acting on a 1 500-kg satellite at this height?
A) 85 N
B) 333 N
C) 404 N
D) 457 N

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The gravitational force acting on the satellite at this height can be calculated using the formula F = G(m1m2)/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses of the Earth and the satellite respectively, and r is the distance between their centers. Plugging in the values, we get F = (6.67x10^-11 Nm^2/kg^2)(1500 kg)(5.98x10^24 kg)/(42000 km)^2 = 332.5 N, which is closest to option B: 333 N.

Geosynchronous Satellites Orbit the Earth at a Distance of 42