Geosynchronus Sattelite Question

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In summary, geosynchronous satellites are artificial satellites that orbit the Earth at the same speed and direction as the Earth's rotation, allowing them to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. They are primarily used for communication, navigation, and weather monitoring purposes. These satellites are positioned at a high altitude of approximately 35,000 kilometers and have a period of exactly 24 hours, making them ideal for providing continuous coverage over a specific region on Earth. These satellites have revolutionized the way we communicate and gather information, enabling global connectivity and real-time data collection.
  • #1
bleedblue1234
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Homework Statement



A satellite that stays over the same spot on a planet as it rotates is called a geostationary satellite. (Geostationary satellites must be positioned somewhere over the equator of the planet.) What is the average orbital radius of a geostationary satellite for a planet with a mass of 4.82 x 10^24 kilograms and a period of rotation of 14.0 hours?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



F = ma
Fg = GM1m2/r^2
Gm1m2/r^2 = m2(v^2/r)
GM1/r = V^2
GM1/r = (2(pi)/T)^2
GM1/r = 4(pi)^2r^2/T^2
GM1T^2/4(pi)^2 = r^3
r = approx 1.26E8 m

but i am getting it wrong
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Looks like a computation error? I get a different answer using that same formula with those same numbers.
 
  • #3
cepheid said:
Looks like a computation error? I get a different answer using that same formula with those same numbers.

its 10^24... see my post again i edited the question to include the ^

edit... i got 3.34E8 now...

nvm back to 1.26E8
 
  • #4
Yeah, I assumed that's what it meant, but I still got a different answer from you.
 
  • #5
cepheid said:
Yeah, I assumed that's what it meant, but I still got a different answer from you.

hrm so

(6.67E-11) * (4.82 x 10^24) * (14*60*60)^2
/
(4(pi)^2)

so doing the math i get approx
2.01E24 ish

then do the third square root of that to get r...
and i get 1.26E8
 
  • #6
bleedblue1234 said:
hrm so

(6.67E-11) * (4.82 x 10^24) * (14*60*60)^2
/
(4(pi)^2)

so doing the math i get approx
2.01E24 ish


I get approx. 2.06e22.

bleedblue1234 said:
then do the third square root of that to get r...
and i get 1.26E8

Do you mean the cube root?

It looks like there could be at least two problems with your calculation...
 
  • #7
cepheid said:
I get approx. 2.06e22.
Do you mean the cube root?

It looks like there could be at least two problems with your calculation...

yes... i meant the cube root

but i am doing the calculation right and i keep getting 2.014E24

(are you doing 14*60*60 to convert hours to seconds?)
 
  • #10
Yes, that's about what I got.
 
  • #11
cepheid said:
Yes, that's about what I got.

about or is... i have 1 submission to get it right... :-p

thanks

edit: nailed the problem, much thanks
 
  • #12

Related to Geosynchronus Sattelite Question

What is a geosynchronous satellite?

A geosynchronous satellite is a satellite that orbits the Earth at the same rate as the Earth's rotation, which allows it to maintain a fixed position above a certain point on the Earth's surface.

How does a geosynchronous satellite work?

A geosynchronous satellite works by constantly orbiting the Earth at a specific altitude and speed, while the Earth rotates underneath it. This allows the satellite to always remain above the same point on the Earth's surface.

What are the benefits of using geosynchronous satellites?

The use of geosynchronous satellites allows for continuous communication and observation capabilities, making them ideal for applications such as weather forecasting, GPS navigation, and telecommunications.

How do geosynchronous satellites differ from other types of satellites?

Geosynchronous satellites differ from other types of satellites in their orbit, as they maintain a fixed position above a specific point on the Earth's surface. This is in contrast to other satellites that have varying orbits and may move across the sky.

What are the potential drawbacks of using geosynchronous satellites?

The main drawback of using geosynchronous satellites is their limited coverage area, as they can only maintain a fixed position above a certain point on the Earth's surface. Additionally, because they are located at a higher altitude, there may be a slight delay in communication signals.

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