A satellite appears to be at rest when seen from the equator of the earth. The height of the satellite from the surface of the earth is

Explanation:

Such a satellite is called a geostationary satellite.

• It appears stationary to an observer on Earth because it orbits the Earth once every 24 hours, matching Earth’s rotation.

Important Fact:

• The geostationary orbit is at a height of approximately 35,786 km, which is commonly rounded to 36,000 km from the surface of the Earth.

Correct Answer:

a) 36,000 km

• A satellite at 36,000 km remains fixed relative to the equator, hence appears at rest.
• Other options like 6400 km, 1000 km, or 40000 km are incorrect because they either fall below or exceed the stable geostationary orbit range.