Chapter 2, Problem 15STP

To determine

To explain: the choice to put the reference point in order to describe the motion of a space probe travelling from earth to Jupiter.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

To figure out how far an object is positioned or how fast it is traveling, one needs a reference point from which to calculate it. Any physical calculation is begun from a point of reference. Measurement is object status with respect to some other related parameter.

Earth would be the reference point to describe the motion of a space probe travelling from earth to Jupiter as we have sufficient information to measure the relative speeds.

Conclusion:

Hence, the earth will be the place of reference point.