Time Interval of Observation of a Satellite – Rankers Physics

Planet and Satellite: Practice Problem & Solution

A satellite is seen after each 8 hours over equator at a place on the earth when its sense of rotation is opposite to the earth. The time interval after which it can be seen at the same place when the sense of rotation of earth & satellite is same will be :
8 hours
12 hours
24 hours
6 hours

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Planet and Satellite. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

When rotating oppositely, \(\frac{1}{T_{\text{rel}}} = \frac{1}{T_s} + \frac{1}{T_e} \Rightarrow \frac{1}{8} = \frac{1}{T_s} + \frac{1}{24}\), which gives \(T_s = 12\text{ hours}\). When rotating in the same direction, \(\frac{1}{T_{\text{rel}}'} = \frac{1}{T_s} - \frac{1}{T_e} = \frac{1}{12} - \frac{1}{24} = \frac{1}{24}\), so \(T_{\text{rel}}' = 24\text{ hours}\).

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