A geostationary satellite orbits the Earth from: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

A geostationary satellite orbits the Earth from:
A. South to North
B. North to South
C. West to East
D. East to West
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
A geostationary satellite must appear stationary to an observer on the Earth's surface. To achieve this, it must orbit in the exact equatorial plane and strictly follow the Earth's rotation. Since the Earth rotates on its axis from West to East, the geostationary satellite must also orbit from West to East.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
A 2 kg mass moving at 4 m/s collides elastically with a stationary 2 kg mass. After collision, first mass
A. Rebounds with 4 m/s
B. Moves with 1 m/s
C. Stops
D. Moves with 2 m/s

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Equal masses elastic collision: velocities swap. Moving mass stops, stationary moves with 4 m/s.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
Assertion (A): The acceleration due to gravity is less at the equator than at the poles. Reason (R): Earth's rotation causes a centrifugal effect that reduces effective gravity at the equator.
A. A is false, but R is true
B. A is true, but R is false
C. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
D. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Assertion is true: g is about 9.78 m/s² at equator vs 9.83 m/s² at poles. Reason is true and correctly explains A: Earth's rotation creates centrifugal acceleration outward, maximum at equator (radius of rotation = Earth's radius), reducing effective g. Additionally, equatorial bulge increases distance from center, further reducing g. Memory tip: 'Rotation effect: g_effective = g - ω²R cos²φ'. This assertion-reason question tests nuanced understanding of gravity variation, common in competitive exams. Always verify both statements independently before assessing the explanatory link.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
The resistance of a wire is R. If its length is doubled and area is halved, the new resistance is
A. 4R
B. R
C. R/2
D. 2R

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
R ∝ L/A. New L'=2L, A'=A/2 => R' = ρ(2L)/(A/2) = 4ρL/A = 4R. Alternatively, volume constant? Not given, here both changed independently. So 4R.

This question belongs to: Science Physics