GPS question, unanswered on PS

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In summary, the conversation discusses the use of GPS satellites and the measurement of intensity at points on a circle around the satellite. The intensity is measured at various angles and a formula is used to determine the intensity at different angles. The conversation also includes a question about the intensity at a specific angle, which is ultimately resolved by using a more precise value for a variable in the formula.
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Penguin98
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Homework Statement


The GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites are approximately 5.18 m across and transmit two low-power signals, one of which is at 1575.42 MHz (in the UHF band). In a series of laboratory tests on the satellite, you put two 1575.42 MHz UHF transmitters at opposite ends of the satellite. These broadcast in phase uniformly in all directions. You measure the intensity at points on a circle that is several hundred meters in radius and centered on the satellite. You measure angles on this circle relative to a point that lies along the centerline of the satellite (that is, the perpendicular bisector of a line which extends from one transmitter to the other). At this point on the circle, the measured intensity is 2.00 W/m2.

(a) At how many other angles in the range 0∘<θ<90∘ is the intensity also 2.00 W/m2?
dsin(theta) = m*lamda
rearrange to find m, but lamda unknown so need to find that first using lamda=c/f
lamda=(3*10^8)/(1575.42*10^6) = 0.19m
m = 5.18(1)/0.19 = 27
CORRECT

(b) Find the four smallest( positive) angles in the range 0∘<θ<90∘ for which the intensity is 2.00 W/m2.
dsin(theta) = m*lamda
rearrange to find theta for m = 1,2,3,4
m=1 --> 2.11 degrees
m=2 --> 4.22 degrees
m=3 --> 6.33 degrees
m=4 --> 8.44 degrees
CORRECT

(c) What is the intensity at a point on the circle at an angle of 4.90 degrees from the centerline?
photo of attempt attached.
INCORRECTNot sure what to do at this point, any help appreciated.
 

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  • #2
I get the same answer as you.
 
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haruspex said:
I get the same answer as you.

yup turns out it was just the system being super precise, the value needed to be calculated with a more precise lamda value, not 0.19. But otherwise, it is correct.
 

What is GPS?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is a network of satellites orbiting the Earth that transmit signals to GPS receivers on the ground, allowing them to determine their precise location.

How does GPS work?

GPS satellites continuously send out signals that contain information about their location and the exact time. The GPS receiver on the ground picks up these signals from multiple satellites and uses the time delay to calculate its distance from each satellite. By triangulating this information, the receiver is able to determine its precise location.

How accurate is GPS?

The accuracy of GPS depends on various factors such as satellite availability, atmospheric conditions, and the quality of the GPS receiver. On average, GPS can determine location within a few meters, but advanced receivers can provide accuracy down to a few centimeters.

Can GPS be used for navigation?

Yes, GPS is commonly used for navigation by providing real-time location information and mapping services. It is widely used in vehicles, smartphones, and other devices for navigation purposes.

What are some other applications of GPS?

GPS has a wide range of applications, including but not limited to navigation, surveying, tracking, time synchronization, and scientific research. It is also used in various industries such as agriculture, aviation, and transportation for precision and efficiency.

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