# Geostationary satellites are used for television broadcasting. Describe the orbit of a geostationary satellite and explain why this type of orbit makes it suitable for receiving television signals continuously.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 10.1 Solar system; stability of orbital motions; satellites · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A geostationary satellite orbits above the equator
2. A geostationary satellite has an orbital period of 24 hours (matching Earth's rotation period)
3. The satellite remains above the same point on Earth's surface at all times
4. A dish on the ground can remain pointed at the satellite without needing to move/track, allowing a continuous signal

## Key terms

- [geostationary satellite](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/geostationary-satellite)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/geostationary-satellites-are-used-for-television-3a47c17d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.