Change in Angular Velocity While Orbiting With No Torque

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Angular velocity changes while orbiting a star due to conservation of angular momentum, despite the absence of net torque. As a planet moves closer to a star, it experiences less rotational inertia, resulting in increased angular velocity. Conversely, when it is farther away, the increased rotational inertia leads to a decrease in angular velocity. The discussion clarifies that angular momentum remains constant in the absence of torque, allowing for changes in angular velocity based on geometry and motion dynamics. Understanding these principles is essential for grasping the complexities of orbital mechanics.
  • #31
uSee2 said:
So essentially, we can't use ##\tau = I\alpha## for non-rigid body motion?
Yes, that is how I see it.
 

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