What are the factors affecting geostationary satellite orbits?

AI Thread Summary
Geostationary satellites are positioned above the equator, which prevents them from viewing the north and south poles, making statement (d) correct. The mass of a geostationary satellite does not affect its orbit due to the cancellation in the gravitational and centripetal force equations, supporting statement (e) as also correct. It is clarified that multiple statements can be correct in this context. The orbital radius must remain fixed to maintain a 24-hour period, contradicting statement (b). Understanding these factors is essential for comprehending geostationary satellite functionality.
songoku
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Homework Statement


Which of the following statements about geostationary satellite is correct?
a. geostationary satellites must orbit from east to west
b. the orbital radius of a geostationary satellite can be varied as long as its period is 24 hours
c. it is a constellation of at least two satellites
d. any geostationary satellites are not able to view the north and south poles
e. the mass of a geostationary satellite does not have to be fixed.

Homework Equations


gravitational force
centripetal force

The Attempt at a Solution


I think the answer is (d). Geostationary satellite is located on equator so it can't view the poles. But I am not sure about (e). From equation gravitational force = centripetal force, the mass of satellite will cancel out so the orbit is independent of the mass of satellite, so maybe (e) is the correct one?

Thanks
 
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Both (d) and (e) are correct. You can have more than one correct statements.
 
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