Altitude of a geostationary satellite relative to Earth’s surface The distance of a geostationary (synchronous, equatorial) satellite from Earth’s surface is approximately how many kilometres?

Introduction / Context:Geostationary satellites orbit with a period equal to Earth’s rotational period and remain fixed relative to a point on the equator. Their altitude is set by orbital mechanics.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Geostationary orbit radius from Earth’s center ≈ 42,164 km.
• Mean Earth radius ≈ 6,378 km.

Concept / Approach:Altitude above Earth’s surface = orbital radius − Earth’s mean radius ≈ 42,164 − 6,378 ≈ 35,786 km. Rounded values in practice are often quoted as ~35,800–35,900 km.

Step-by-Step Solution:R_orbit ≈ 42,164 km.R_Earth ≈ 6,378 km.Altitude ≈ 42,164 − 6,378 ≈ 35,786 km.Closest listed choice ≈ 35,900 km.

Verification / Alternative check:Standard references list geostationary altitude at about 35,786 km; engineering texts commonly round to ~35,800–35,900 km.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:300 km and 10,000 km correspond to low-Earth and medium-Earth regimes; 5 km is nonsensical; 22,300 km is miles (≈ 22,300 miles ≈ 35,900 km), not kilometres.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing miles and kilometres; ensure consistent units.

Final Answer:35,900