Determining angle to which satellite is visible

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To determine the angle at which a satellite is visible to an observer on the equator, one must consider the satellite's altitude of 1680 km and its orbital period of 2 hours. A geometrical approach is essential, involving the drawing of a triangle that includes the satellite's position and the observer's line of sight. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accurately sketching the scenario to visualize the tangent line, which indicates the limits of visibility. The geometry suggests that any line of sight below the tangent will intersect the Earth's surface, blocking the satellite from view. Understanding this geometric relationship is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


An Earth satellite is moving in the plane of the Earth's equator. Satellite is 1680km above Earth's surface, with a period of 2 hours. Determine the angle through which satellite is visible to an observer at an equator, measured about the centre of the Earth.

Homework Equations



the first part involved finding the height above the satellite, which I have found to be 1680km. This is the second part. I know a geometrical approach is required, but can't seem to draw it out.

The Attempt at a Solution



Tried drawing a sphere and satellite but can't seem to work it out.. Appreciate help! (Already tried but failed to understand the provided answers)Original souce: question 2b(iii) of http://www.physics.ox.ac.uk/olympiad/Downloads/PastPapers/BPhO_Paper2_2006_QP.pdf

Answer: http://www.physics.ox.ac.uk/olympiad/Downloads/PastPapers/BPhO_Paper2_2006_MS.pdf
 
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I think drawing an accurate picture helps. Does this drawing help? You have two lengths of a triangle, problem started?
 

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so I assume the guy is at the top, and since the line is a tangent to his line of sight, any where lower than the tangent, the line produced will cut through the Earth's surface, resulting in the satellite being blocked.

Is that analogy correct?
 
Give or take a little I think the sketch is the geometry you are looking for.
 
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