Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]
- Exam
- Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]
- Subject
- Physics
- Chapter
- The Forces
Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1] · Physics · The Forces
A geostationary satellite orbits at a distance of approximately...
A geostationary satellite orbits at a distance of approximately from the surface of the earth. Determine the weight of a equipment placed inside this satellite. The radius of the earth is .
Options
- A
- B
- C
- D
Correct answer
B.
Step-by-step solution
The weight of an object placed inside a satellite is its apparent weight, which is the normal reaction force exerted by the surface of the satellite on the object.
In an orbiting satellite, both the satellite and the equipment inside it are in a state of free fall towards the Earth.
The centripetal acceleration of the satellite and the equipment is provided entirely by the Earth's gravitational pull.
Let be the acceleration due to gravity at the orbit. The equation of motion for the equipment is .
Since the satellite is in a stable orbit, .
Substituting this, we get , which gives .
Thus, the equipment experiences weightlessness, and its weight inside the satellite is .
In an orbiting satellite, both the satellite and the equipment inside it are in a state of free fall towards the Earth.
The centripetal acceleration of the satellite and the equipment is provided entirely by the Earth's gravitational pull.
Let be the acceleration due to gravity at the orbit. The equation of motion for the equipment is .
Since the satellite is in a stable orbit, .
Substituting this, we get , which gives .
Thus, the equipment experiences weightlessness, and its weight inside the satellite is .