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CAIE A-Level Physics 13.2.4 Geostationary Orbits

Practise identifying geostationary-orbit conditions, including a 24-hour equatorial circular orbit and west-to-east motion, and selecting suitable satellite paths.

Syllabus
2028–2030
Course
Physics 9702
Level
A2

Exam points

  • state the conditions for a geostationary orbit, including 24-hour period, west-to-east motion and an equatorial circular orbit
  • identify why a geostationary satellite remains above the same point on Earth
  • apply the geostationary conditions to compare or select a suitable orbit

13.2.4—A satellite in a geostationary orbit remains at the same point above the question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

Another satellite is in a circular orbit around the Earth with the same orbital radius and period as the satellite in (c).

Despite having the same orbital period, the orbit of this satellite is not geostationary.

Suggest two ways in which the orbit of this satellite could be different from the orbit of the satellite in (c).

1

2

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