Shape of Orbits of Planets

In summary, the shape of a planet's orbit is primarily determined by its distance from the sun and its speed. However, a planet's orbit can change over time due to gravitational interactions with other celestial bodies. Planets that are closer to the sun and have stronger gravitational interactions tend to have more circular orbits, while those farther away have more elliptical orbits. The planets in our solar system have varying orbital planes, with some having more inclined orbits due to different formation processes. The shape of a planet's orbit can also affect its habitability, with a highly elliptical orbit causing extreme temperature fluctuations and a more circular orbit resulting in a more stable climate.
  • #1
SandeshPhy
25
0
Why are the orbits of planets revolving around a body(say the sun) elliptical rather than circular or any other shape?
Please show the answer mathematically.
 
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  • #2
This page shows how Kepler's laws(including Kepler's first law that planetary orbits are ellipses) follow from Newton's laws of motion and Newton's law of universal gravitation.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keplers_laws
 

1. What determines the shape of a planet's orbit?

The shape of a planet's orbit is primarily determined by its distance from the sun and its speed. The farther a planet is from the sun, the more elliptical its orbit will be. Similarly, the faster a planet moves, the more circular its orbit will be.

2. Can a planet's orbit change over time?

Yes, a planet's orbit can change over time due to various factors such as gravitational interactions with other planets, asteroids, or comets. These changes can sometimes be significant, altering the shape, size, and orientation of a planet's orbit.

3. Why do some planets have more elliptical orbits than others?

The shape of a planet's orbit is influenced by its position in the solar system and the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies. Planets that are closer to the sun and have stronger gravitational interactions with other planets tend to have more circular orbits, while those farther away have more elliptical orbits.

4. Are all planets in our solar system in the same orbital plane?

No, the planets in our solar system have varying orbital planes. While most of them orbit in a relatively flat plane known as the ecliptic, some, like Pluto, have more inclined orbits. This is due to the different formation processes of each planet.

5. Can the shape of a planet's orbit affect its habitability?

Yes, the shape of a planet's orbit can have a significant impact on its habitability. For example, a planet with a highly elliptical orbit may experience extreme temperature fluctuations, making it difficult for life to thrive. A more circular orbit, on the other hand, would result in a more stable climate.

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