Final answer:
To prevent counter-rotation while tightening a bolt in space, an astronaut can use a handhold to apply force against the satellite's structure. Utilizing this handhold, the astronaut can stabilize themselves by transferring the rotational forces to the satellite, following Newton's third law. Option a) The astronaut can push against the satellite's structure is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an astronaut tightens a bolt on a satellite in orbit, and both they and the satellite experience counter-rotation, this is due to Newton's third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. If the astronaut uses a tool to turn the bolt, this would create a torque on the bolt that is resisted by the satellite, causing the astronaut to rotate in the opposite direction due to the reaction force.
To prevent this counter-rotation, the astronaut can utilize a handhold on the satellite. By doing so, the astronaut can apply an opposing force that prevents them from rotating. This is similar to how one might push off against the ground to prevent rotation when turning a wrench on Earth. The correct option in this case is: a) The astronaut can push against the satellite's structure.
Using a handhold allows the astronaut to transfer the reactive force to the satellite's structure rather than experiencing rotational motion themselves, hence maintaining their stability while performing tasks like tightening bolts