Physics (Essay) Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2023

Question 4

 

State three differences between and geostationary satellites and polar satellites

Observation

 

Many candidates were able to differentiate between geostationary and polar satellites correctly. Some of the candidates could not give more than one difference.
 
EXPECTED RESPONSES:
                                                                   
Differences between geostationary and polar satellites

Geostationary

Polar

The period of revolution is the same as the period of rotation of the Earth/24 hours/1 day

The period of revolution in orbit is not the same as the period of rotation of the Earth/varies

Orbits directly along the equator/latitude

Travels from pole to pole in orbit/along the longitude

It appears to be stationary above a point on the Earth’s surface

It is not always in the same position relative to the Earth

Provides continuous coverage of specific regions/areas

Provides global coverage