Do Planets Orbit Closer to the Sun Over Time?

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SUMMARY

The planets in our solar system are not locked in their orbits indefinitely; they are influenced by the Sun's gravitational pull and its mass loss over time. As the Sun burns fuel, it gradually loses mass, causing the planets to slowly drift away from it. In approximately a few billion years, the Sun will expand into a red giant, which will engulf the inner planets, altering their orbits significantly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational forces and their effects on celestial bodies
  • Basic knowledge of stellar evolution and the life cycle of stars
  • Familiarity with orbital mechanics and planetary motion
  • Awareness of the concept of mass loss in stars
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of solar mass loss on planetary orbits
  • Study the life cycle of stars, focusing on the transition to red giants
  • Explore gravitational interactions in multi-body systems
  • Learn about the long-term evolution of the solar system
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, astrophysicists, and students studying celestial mechanics and stellar evolution will benefit from this discussion.

mikejr82
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Just a quick question
Are the planets totally locked in there orbits forever or do they slowly get drawn in closer to the sun?either by the sun's gravitational pull or simply by the sun expanding?
Thanks in advance for any replys
mike
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
Given that the Sun is slowly losing mass as it burns it fuel, the planets will slowly move away from the Sun.
In a few billion years the Sun will then expand into a red giant, engulfing the inner planets.
 

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