Space is defined as per the Karman line at an altitude above?

Appeared in: ISRO 2024

Explanation

The Kármán line is the internationally accepted boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space.
It is defined by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) as an altitude of 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) above sea level.
This altitude marks the point where traditional aeronautics (flight relying on air for lift) is no longer feasible, and astronautics (spaceflight) begins.
At or above this line, a vehicle must travel at orbital velocity to remain in the sky, as the atmosphere is too thin to provide sufficient aerodynamic lift.

Option A: 80 km (or 50 miles) is an alternative definition for the edge of space used by some entities, like the U.S. military, but it is not the internationally recognized Kármán line.
Option C: 115 km is an arbitrary altitude that is well above the internationally defined boundary of space.
Option D: 130 km is an arbitrary altitude that is well above the internationally defined boundary of space.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of the Karman line and the boundary of space as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While not a direct clinical concept, understanding fundamental scientific definitions like the Karman line is part of general knowledge that is often tested in competitive examinations.
Knowledge of space physiology and the environment of space is relevant in the specialized field of aerospace nursing.
What if? If the question asked for the U.S. military's definition of space, the answer would be approximately 80 km (50 miles), not 100 km.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the key term in the question, which is 'Karman line'.
Recognize this as a factual recall question that requires knowing a specific scientific definition.
Recall or deduce the internationally accepted altitude for the Karman line.
Compare the recalled value with the given options to select the correct answer.
Eliminate distractors, such as the 80 km mark, by remembering it's a different, non-international standard.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ISRO 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.