Orbit Deformation: Mars & Jupiter

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    Deformation Orbits
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the deformation of planetary orbits in the solar system, specifically focusing on the interaction between Mars and Jupiter. Participants explore the nature of these orbital changes, the forces involved, and the implications for the long-term stability of Mars's orbit.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether Mars's orbit becomes more elliptical when passing Jupiter and if this leads to Mars getting closer to Jupiter over time.
  • Another participant clarifies that Mars's orbit is already elliptical and that Jupiter does indeed deform Mars's orbit when they are nearest to each other, but the effects average out over time due to the varying directions of gravitational tugs.
  • There is a question about the mechanism behind the deformation of orbits, with one participant suggesting it might be due to magnetic fields.
  • A response indicates that the deformation is due to the varying strength of gravitational forces as planets approach and move away from each other.
  • Further clarification emphasizes that the gravitational influence of massive planets is responsible for the orbital deformations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that gravitational interactions between planets lead to orbital deformations, but there is some uncertainty regarding the specific mechanisms and implications of these interactions.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the nature of gravitational interactions and the specific effects on Mars's orbit remain unresolved, particularly regarding the long-term consequences of these deformations.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying celestial mechanics, planetary science, or anyone curious about the dynamics of planetary orbits in the solar system.

jake_at
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hey, i was just wondering some stuff about the orbit of planets in our solar system. is when passing jupiter, for example, the orbit of Mars deformed, turned into an ellipse? if so, does this mean that Mars is getting closer and closer to jupiter, or is there something that will keep Mars from eventually being pulled right into jupiter?

:) J.
 
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Mars's orbit is already an ellipse, as are all the planets' orbits. Jupiter DOES deform Mars's orbit when they are nearest each other. In fact, all the planets deform each others' orbits, but not always detectably so. For example, Mercury does not have much of an effect on Pluto, but Neptune does. (That's how Pluto was discovered.)

In general, Jupiter tugs on Mars some on one side of the Sun, and again on the other side some time later. Since the tugs are not always in the same direction, they average out over time.

- Warren
 
But why do they deform each other's orbits? Is it the magnetic field?
 
The varying gravity strength as the planets pass closer or farther away from each other.
 
Originally posted by Thallium
But why do they deform each other's orbits? Is it the magnetic field?
The planets are massive, and thus exert gravitational influence on each other.

- Warren
 
Lovely! Three answers:smile: Thanks for the link!
 

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