Doubt about the elliptic orbits of the planets

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the justification for the elliptical orbits of planets, emphasizing that only forces described by the equation f = -kr^n, with n equal to -2, can produce bound orbits. The participants confirm that the conservation of energy and angular momentum supports this conclusion. They assert that since the orbital speed of planets varies over time, the only stable path remains elliptical. The integration of the orbit equation leads to the conclusion that elliptical orbits are the only feasible solution for planetary motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of central forces in physics
  • Familiarity with conservation laws (energy and angular momentum)
  • Knowledge of conic sections and their equations
  • Basic principles of orbital mechanics
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  • Study the implications of Bertrand's Theorem in orbital mechanics
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of conic sections from orbital equations
  • Investigate the role of gravitational forces in planetary motion
  • Learn about the variations in orbital speed and their effects on elliptical orbits
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Astronomers, physicists, students of celestial mechanics, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of planetary motion.

LCSphysicist
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Homework Statement
I was thinking, if it were ask to me why is the orbit of planets elliptic...
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I was thinking to myself, if it were ask to me why is the orbit of planets elliptic, how to justify?:

If the person don't know the Newton's law of gravitation said:
"It is easy to show, first, that the force is central, we have the motion in a plane, we can also show the energy and angular momentum is conversed without mention to power function of the force."
"Now, we can show that the only forces that could result in bound orbits, whatever be the particle, is the f = -kr^n, n equals one or minus two"
"But, n equals one is such unlikely, the only one n possible is equals minus two"
"So, we can now integrate the orbit equation, and get the equation of conics"

if he know said:
"Here is the thing, since we could say that the orbit is closed (or, at least, approximately), the only possible path is circular or elliptic"
"It's sufficient one statement to close the discussion: Find out if the orbital speed of the planet is constant or not, because L = rxmv,for circular orbits, |r| remains constant and perpendicular to the velocity tangential, but L is constant, so V would be constant."
"But the speed with respect to the stars, or the center of mass of universe or whatever frame inertial, varies with the time"
"Only the elliptical orbit remained"
"So is elliptical"

The bould phrases i just know to justify with collected dates.

IS this a reasonable justification?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
You might find it interesting to have a look at the justification for Bertrand's Theorem.
 

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