Global positioning satellites (GPS) can be used to determine positions with grea

Question

Global positioning satellites (GPS) can be used to determine positions with great accuracy. The system works by determining the distance between the observer and each of several satellites orbiting Earth.

PART A.)

If one of the satellites is at a distance of 20,000 km from you, what percent accuracy in the distance is required if we desire a 2-meter uncertainty?

Express your answer using one significant figure.

PART B.)

How many significant figures are needed in the distance?

Express your answer as an integer.

Explanation / Answer

Percentage error = ( uncertainity / original value ) x 100
uncertainity= 2m
Percentage error = (2 m / 20,000 x 103 m) x 100
% error = 0.00001%
% error = 1 x 10-5 %

(b) number of significant figures=1

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