The time period of revolution of a satellite close to Earth's surface is approximately: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The time period of revolution of a satellite close to Earth's surface is approximately:
A. 84 minutes
B. 12 hours
C. 90 minutes
D. 24 hours
Answer: Option A
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
For low Earth orbit (r ≈ R_earth), orbital period T = 2π√(r³/GM). Using g = GM/R², T = 2π√(R/g). With R = 6.4×10⁶ m, g = 9.8 m/s², T ≈ 2×3.14×√(6.4e6/9.8) ≈ 6.28×√(653061) ≈ 6.28×808 ≈ 5076 s ≈ 84.6 minutes. Memory aid: 'Low orbit period ≈ 84 min; geostationary = 24 hours'. This standard result is frequently tested in competitive exams. Always recall that period increases with orbital radius; competitive exams often compare low orbit vs geostationary periods.

This question belongs to: Science Physics

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