Chapter 14, Problem 33A

Why do you suppose that a space shuttle is sent into orbit by firing it in an easterly direction (the direction in which Earth spins)?

To determine

To explain: The reason for supposing that space shuttle is sent into orbit by firing in easterly direction .

Answer to Problem 33A

Satellite are fired up in eastward direction to take the advantage of easterly rotation of Earth and to save fuel of the rocket.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

A satellite moves in a circular orbit around the Earth at constant speed is perpendicular to gravity but parallel to the Earth’s surface.

Whenever satellites are launched from any planet, its main motive is to start rotating around the the planet, from which it is being fired.Many rockets are needed to fire up the satellite to make it rotate.Earth rotate in East direction .If firing is is done in the direction of Earth’s rotation, then it will saves a lot of fuel and thus speed will be boost up due to Earth’s spin.

Conclusion:

Satellite are fired up in Eastward direction to take the advantage of Easterly rotation of Earth, thus saving the fuel of the rocket.