Low Earth Orbit is generally considered to be at a radius of
a
6,500 to 8,400 kilometers
b
8,400 to 42,000 kilometers
c
42,000 or higher kilometers
a) 6,500 to 8,400 kilometers
Low Earth Orbit is generally considered to be at a radius of 6,500 to 8,400 kilometers.
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand what "Low Earth Orbit" (LEO) refers to and what its typical radius is.
Low Earth Orbit is a term used to describe a specific region around Earth where satellites and manned spacecraft typically orbit. LEO is characterized by a relatively close distance to the Earth's surface compared to other orbits.
Now let's examine the given options:
a) 6,500 to 8,400 kilometers
b) 8,400 to 42,000 kilometers
c) 42,000 or higher kilometers
To find the accurate range for LEO radius, we can consult reliable sources such as space agencies or astronomy textbooks. One such source is NASA, which defines LEO as an orbit with an altitude ranging from approximately 160 to 2,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface.
Converting altitude to radius, we add the Earth's radius (6,371 kilometers) to the lower and upper limits of the altitude:
a) 6,371 + 160 = 6,531 kilometers to 6,371 + 2,000 = 8,371 kilometers
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) 6,500 to 8,400 kilometers.