General Science question from Patwari exam, 2024 by JKSSB
Assertion (A): Artificial Satellites are always launched from the earth in the eastwards direction.
Reason (R): The earth rotates from west to east and so the satellite attains the escape velocity.
Choose the correct option:
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option C —
A is correct, but R is incorrect.
• Assertion (A) is Correct: Satellites are generally launched in the eastward direction to take advantage of the Earth's natural rotation. By launching in the same direction the planet rotates, the rocket gains an initial "boost" in speed, which saves a significant amount of fuel.
• Reason (R) is Incorrect: While it is true that the Earth rotates from west to east, this rotation does not help the satellite attain escape velocity.
o Escape velocity is the speed required to break free from Earth's gravitational pull entirely (approx. 11.2 km/s).
o Most satellites are launched into Orbit, which requires orbital velocity, not escape velocity.
o The Earth's rotational boost at the equator is only about 0.46 km/s, which is a helpful head start for reaching orbital speed but is nowhere near enough to achieve escape velocity on its own.
• Logical Conclusion: The assertion describes a real practice (eastward launches), but the reason provided misidentifies the physical goal (attaining escape velocity) as the result of that rotation.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
