Final answer:
Geostationary satellites stay over a fixed point on Earth's equator and are great for communication and weather observation, whereas polar-orbiting satellites pass over the Earth's poles and are used for global weather and environmental monitoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary differences between geostationary satellites and polar-orbiting satellites revolve around their orbital patterns and purposes. Geostationary satellites orbit in the Earth’s equatorial plane at a height of approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles), which allows them to have an orbital period of exactly one day. This synchronized orbit means that the satellite appears to stay in the same spot in the sky, making them ideal for communication, broadcast, and weather observation. In contrast, polar-orbiting satellites travel at a much lower altitude, usually a few hundred kilometers above the Earth, and pass over the poles on each revolution. Their orbits cover the entire Earth as it rotates underneath, making them well-suited for global weather surveillance and environmental monitoring.