21.5 Satellite motion Flashcards
1
Q
Define a geostationary orbit?
A
A geostationary orbit is on with time period of 24 hours, so it stays in the same place in orbit. Used for telecommunications.
Above the equator
2
Q
What happens to the speed of a satellite as it moves close to the earth?
A
It speeds up
3
Q
Which direction does the force and velocity of the satellite act in?
A
The force acts towards the centre of the planet, and the velocity acts in a perpendicular direction. (circular motion)
4
Q
What orbit does a weather satellite perform and why?
A
Polar orbit, which is pole to pole. As the earth rotates west to east, the satellite is able to get pictures of the entire planet every day.
