Calculating Kinetic Energy Change of Earth's Orbit

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the change in Earth's kinetic energy due to its varying distance from the sun, the formula K = 0.5mv^2 is applicable, where v represents the orbital velocity. The velocity can be derived using Newton's law of universal gravitation and the elliptical nature of Earth's orbit, which requires relating acceleration and velocity. Additionally, the change in gravitational potential energy should be considered alongside kinetic energy changes. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding both kinetic and potential energy in the context of Earth's elliptical orbit. Accurate calculations will involve integrating these concepts to determine the overall energy changes throughout the year.
lmf22
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kinetic energy...

The Earth's distance from the sun varies from 1.474e8 km to 1.525e8 km during the year. Take the Sun to be at rest.

Determine the difference in the Earth's kinetic energy.

Would I just use K=.5mv^2? If so what would v be?
If not, how would I set this up?

Thank you.
 
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Find the change in gravitational potential energy.
 
i think so.
Newton's law of universal gravitation to find a.
Motion in circular path although the orbit is an ellipse to relate a and v.
 

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