How fast are geostationary satellites moving?

From a Newtonian perspective, the equation for the speed of a satellite in circular orbit around the Earth at a radius r can be derived by equating centripetal acceleration to the acceleration due to gravity so that the speed v is the square root of the gravitational constant times the mass of Earth, divided by r. This v depends on the r, but the radius of an object in geostationary circular orbit around Earth can be determined by substituting 'two times pi, divided by the period' for the speed. Since the period of Earth's rotation, along with its mass are all known values, you can find the radius and plug that into your first equation to solve for the speed.

AL
Answered by Angus L. Physics tutor

3854 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does a vacuum flask keep a beverage warm for long periods? (6 Marks)


What is an example of a natural satellite?


Draw diagrams to represent the particles in each state: solid, liquid, and gas.


Using the kinetic molecular theory,explain why air pressure inside a syringe increases if the volume decreases from 15.0 cm


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning